Learning from other ECoC cities

Features of Patras 2006

You are in: Liverpool > Capital of Culture > Features > Patras European Capital of Culture 2006

Carnival time in Patras

Patras European Capital of Culture 2006

By Ben Romberg
As Liverpool prepares for 2008, this year’s winners – Patras in Greece - have begun their events and celebrations as European Capital of Culture 2006.

About Patras

Athens was the first city to host the institution of the European Capital of Culture, in 1985. The scheme was launched by the council of Ministers led by Melina Mercouri, the then Minister of Culture in Greece.

Athens was the first city to host the Institution of the European Capital of Culture, in 1985. Ever since, each year, at least one European city is being awarded the title of the European Capital of Culture.

The city of Patras is hosting a range of events including carnival celebrations, poetry, music and renditions of Ancient Greek dramas giving a taste of what Liverpool could deliver in 2008.

Famous actors and musicians from across the continent will be displaying their talent throughout the year in a variety of visual arts performances that are aimed at improving the profile of Patras as a cultural centre.

Trapeze artists in the Patras Carnival

However Patras' year of culture has not got off to the best of starts with the city's Artistic Director quitting in a row over a lack of government funds for the event. Thanos Mikroutsikos a renowned composer and former culture minister quit on 3rd January.

The events lined up by Patras include the famous Carnival which attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Other events include ‘The Spirit of China’ involving China’s National Acrobatic Troupe and a Concert by the ‘Orchestra of Patras’ who provided the soundtrack to films such as ‘Psycho’ and ‘The Hours’.

"The way we perceive Culture depends on the way we perceive life itself; it depends on the way we perceive our own existence. Especially for us, Greeks"

Petros Tatoulis, Deputy Minister of Culture.

Patras, similarly to Liverpool is hoping to highlight its history and tradition within the events that are taking place by bringing to focus its gateway position in Western Europe. The city is hoping to use its European Capital of Culture status to promote creativity and build networks with artists from all over Greece and abroad.

The idea behind the Institution of the European Capital of Culture is to provide a platform for the rebirth of a city with art and culture as the driving force.

This will enhance the visibility and profile of the city and its cultural life both nationally and internationally bringing lasting improvements to the cultural institutions and artistic communities in the city.

The Liverpool Cultural Company will doubtless be keeping an eye on Patras hoping the cultural events will have a regenerating effect on the city’s economy as well as its arts scene.

last updated: 11/01/06

SEE ALSO