Belgium, Cyprus, And Montenegro Step Into The Spotlight With Leuven, Larnaca, And Nikšić As European Capitals Of Culture For 2030

Published on December 15, 2025

Belgium, Cyprus, and Montenegro are set to shine on the European cultural stage as Leuven, Larnaca, and Nikšić have been chosen as European Capitals of Culture for 2030. This honor recognizes the cities’ rich cultural histories and their dedication to promoting creativity, diversity, and international collaboration. The title will bring increased attention to these cities, providing a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and economic growth, while also positioning them as key cultural hubs in Europe for the year ahead.

The European Commission has officially named Larnaca, Cyprus, as one of the European Capitals of Culture for 2030, marking a significant milestone for the city. Larnaca joins Leuven in Belgium and Nikšić in Montenegro as the selected cities, all of which will serve as cultural hubs, playing a key role in showcasing the richness of their local cultures and engaging their communities in meaningful ways. This announcement comes as part of the European Union’s long-standing initiative to foster cultural exchange, promote tourism, and drive regional development across Europe.

Larnaca’s selection as a European Capital of Culture is a proud moment for Cyprus, as it marks the second time the country has been granted this prestigious title. The first was in 2017 when Paphos, a coastal city in the west of the island, held the same honor. The program, initiated in 1985, encourages cities across Europe to bid for the title, with the aim of promoting cultural identity, building community engagement, and attracting tourism while investing in long-term regional growth. By elevating cities to the status of European Capital of Culture, the European Union seeks to celebrate the diversity of cultures and communities, while also nurturing innovation and sustainable development within the region.

Larnaca’s successful bid focuses on the theme of “Common Ground,” which aims to promote empathy, unity, and connection amidst the challenges faced by communities around the world. The theme draws on the concept of “anthropia,” which means shared humanity in Greek. It is an invitation to look beyond the differences that often divide us and to highlight the emotional, physical, and mental connections that bind us together as people. In a world where division and conflict are often at the forefront of global discourse, this theme offers a powerful message of togetherness and mutual understanding.

Larnaca’s vision for its role as a European Capital of Culture in 2030 emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange as a vehicle for positive change. Through its program of events, exhibitions, performances, and community-based activities, Larnaca plans to foster a deeper understanding of what it means to live in a shared world. By focusing on “Common Ground,” the city seeks to bridge the gaps that exist between different cultures, religions, and social groups, offering opportunities for collaboration, dialogue, and creativity. This ambition is reflected in the city’s approach to celebrating both its local cultural heritage and the influences that have shaped Cyprus over the centuries, including the Mediterranean, Byzantine, and modern European cultures.

Cities that are designated as European Capitals of Culture are eligible for the Melina Mercouri Prize, a €1.5 million grant from the EU’s Creative Europe program. This funding is provided to support the cities in their efforts to implement a wide range of cultural initiatives and programs throughout their year-long tenure. The prize is named after the late Greek Minister of Culture, Melina Mercouri, who was instrumental in the creation of the program. The prize recognizes excellence in cultural planning and supports initiatives that promote art, history, and culture in innovative ways. Larnaca’s selection as a European Capital of Culture positions the city to benefit from this financial support, which will be vital in bringing its vision to life.

Past European Capitals of Culture have experienced notable success, both culturally and economically. The program has been shown to drive tourism and improve the local economy. Over the years, it has been reported that cities designated as European Capitals of Culture typically host between 1,000 and 1,200 events per year, drawing in large numbers of visitors. From 2013 to 2022, over 38.5 million people visited these cities, contributing significantly to local economies. For many cities, tourism has increased by 30 to 40% during their time as a European Capital of Culture. This surge in visitors not only boosts the local tourism sector but also stimulates growth in other industries, including hospitality, retail, and services.

One of the key benefits of the European Capital of Culture program is its lasting impact. While the designation itself lasts for only one year, the cultural legacy created during that time can last much longer. The program encourages cities to invest in long-term cultural infrastructure, such as museums, theaters, galleries, and public spaces, that can continue to benefit local residents and visitors for years to come. Larnaca, for example, plans to enhance its cultural infrastructure, invest in the arts, and establish new partnerships with international cultural organizations. These initiatives will not only elevate the city’s global profile but will also offer lasting benefits to the local community, enriching its cultural landscape and promoting creativity and collaboration.

Larnaca’s selection as a European Capital of Culture also underscores the growing importance of smaller cities in the broader European cultural ecosystem. While major cities like Paris, Berlin, and Rome have long been cultural powerhouses, the European Union has increasingly recognized the value of supporting a wider range of cities, including those that may not have traditionally been in the spotlight. By focusing on smaller cities like Larnaca, the European Commission is helping to spread the benefits of cultural investment more evenly across the continent, allowing more regions to showcase their cultural identities and contribute to Europe’s shared cultural heritage.

Leuven, Larnaca, and Nikšić have been named European Capitals of Culture for 2030, recognizing their rich cultural heritage and commitment to fostering creativity and international collaboration.

Larnaca’s selection as a European Capital of Culture for 2030 is a moment of celebration for both the city and Cyprus as a whole. It represents an exciting opportunity for the city to showcase its rich cultural heritage, promote unity and empathy, and attract visitors from around the world. With a focus on the theme of “Common Ground,” Larnaca will undoubtedly inspire a deep sense of connection and belonging among its residents and visitors. The city’s journey as a European Capital of Culture is set to have a lasting impact, both culturally and economically, creating a legacy that will resonate long after 2030 has passed.