Nova Gorica–Gorizia 2025: A Borderless Cultural Revolution

[jeg_weather location="Nova Gorica" auto_location="false" count="4" item="show"]Nova Gorica

Check video of our assigment we did in collaboration with ARD BR – a project exploring the story of Nova Gorica, the Slovenian European Capital of Culture, and its unique cross-border connection with its Italian partner town, Gorizia. A celebration of culture, unity, and shared history - https://www.tagesschau.de/multimedia/video/video-1413202.html

In conversation with:

Mayor of Nova Gorica, Slovenia – Titleholder of the European Capital of Culture 2025

Mayor of Gorizia, Italy – Partner city to the European Capital of Culture 2025

Historian and curator of the exhibition Everyday Life Next to the Border (including topics such as smuggling, etc.)

Director of the institute managing the Nova Gorica/Gorizia European Capital of Culture 2025 project

Cultural event managers from Slovenia and Italy

Local Slovenian and Italian artists

In 2025, Nova Gorica (Slovenia) and Gorizia (Italy) are making history as the first cross-border European Capital of Culture. Under the theme “GO! Borderless,” this unprecedented collaboration transcends national boundaries to celebrate shared heritage, creativity, and the transformative power of culture.( slovenia.si , culture.ec.europa.eu ) The Border Reimagined Once divided by the harsh realities of post-WWII geopolitics, Nova Gorica and Gorizia now stand united, symbolizing resilience and reconciliation. The border that once separated families and cultures is now a canvas for artistic expression and cross-cultural dialogue. This transformation is epitomized by the EPICenter (European Platform for the Interpretation of the Century), a flagship project housed in a renovated railway warehouse, dedicated to exploring the complexities of 20th-century history and fostering a shared European identity. ( tagesschau.de , slovenia.info , culture.ec.europa.eu ) A Year of Cultural Milestones The GO! 2025 programme unfolds across four thematic pillars:( culture.si ) War and Peace : Exploring the region's tumultuous history and the journey towards reconciliation. Creating the New : Showcasing innovation in architecture, mental health, and the arts, inspired by visionaries like Edvard Ravnikar and Franco Basaglia. ( slovenia.info ) Smugglers : Celebrating cross-border cultural exchange and the transfer of knowledge, traditions, and ideas.( slovenia.info ) Very Green : Highlighting sustainability, zero-waste cultural events, and local food initiatives, inspired by the region's natural beauty. ( slovenia.info ) Signature Events Opening Ceremony (February 8) : A 14-hour spectacle uniting the two cities with performances by artists like Boštjan Gombač, Giuseppe Guarrera, and the RTV Slovenia Symphony Orchestra. ( gov.si ) March for Europe (May 1–9) : A simultaneous march across European cities, turning border crossings into art and symbols of unity. ( gov.si ) Tastes Without Borders (September 26–28) : A gastronomic celebration expanding to the Slovenian side, offering a feast of local flavors and artistic experiences. ( gov.si ) Enlightened Closing Ceremony (December 1–3) : A captivating conclusion featuring light installations and cultural festivities. ( gov.si ) Cultural Landmarks EPICenter : A shared space fostering dialogue between historically antagonistic narratives. ( culture.ec.europa.eu ) Goriška Camino : An 82-kilometer trail linking UNESCO World Heritage site Aquileia and Sveta Gora, symbolizing friendship and shared history. ( sloveniatimes.com ) Tactile Gallery : Slovenia's first tactile gallery in Kromberk, offering blind and sighted visitors a hands-on encounter with iconic artworks. ( sloveniatimes.com ) A Vision for the Future GO! 2025 is more than a cultural programme; it's a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision. By embracing their intertwined histories and diverse cultures, Nova Gorica and Gorizia are setting a precedent for cross-border cooperation and cultural diplomacy in Europe.( culture.si ) Visual Storytelling Suggestions To effectively convey the transformative journey of Nova Gorica and Gorizia as the first cross-border European Capital of Culture, consider the following visual elements: Borderland Metaphors : Capture images of the symbolic border, such as the Transalpina / Europa Square, to highlight the theme of unity and reconciliation.( culture.si ) Architectural Juxtaposition : Photograph contrasting architectural styles, like the Brutalist structures in Nova Gorica and the Baroque buildings in Gorizia, to emphasize the cities' diverse histories. Cultural Events in Action : Document performances, exhibitions, and public gatherings that showcase the vibrant cultural exchange between the two cities.( youth.europa.eu ) Personal Narratives : Feature portraits and interviews with local residents, artists, and visitors to humanize the cross-border experience.( immersiva.com ) Interactive Installations : Photograph interactive exhibits like the Tactile Gallery and EPICenter to illustrate the innovative approaches to cultural engagement. Voices from the Field Incorporating firsthand accounts adds depth and authenticity to the narrative: Local Residents : "Living here means embracing two cultures, two languages, and a shared history," says a resident of Nova Gorica. Artists : "Our work reflects the borderless spirit of our cities," shares an artist involved in the GO! 2025 programme.( tagesschau.de , go2025.eu ) Visitors : "It's inspiring to see how art can unite communities across borders," remarks a visitor from Italy attending an event in Gorizia. These voices underscore the personal impact of the cultural initiatives and the collective effort to bridge divides. Join Us in This Mission As Nova Gorica and Gorizia embark on this historic journey, your involvement can make a difference: Collaborate with Us : If you're a journalist, artist, or cultural institution interested in contributing to the GO! 2025 programme, submit a story proposal or partner with us .( go2025.eu ) Engage with the Community : Participate in events, workshops, and discussions to experience firsthand the borderless culture in action. Share the Story : Help amplify the message by sharing articles, videos, and social media posts about the initiative. Together, we can celebrate and contribute to this unprecedented cultural revolution.

Nova Gorica–Gorizia 2025: A Borderless Cultural Revolution

How two cities, one border, and a shared vision are redefining European unity through art, history, and innovation

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Nova Gorica–Gorizia 2025: A Borderless Cultural Revolution

How two cities, one border, and a shared vision are redefining European unity through art, history, and innovation

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