Villach, Tarvis and Kranjska Gora explore 2033 culture bid

Villach, Tarvis and Kranjska Gora are considering a joint bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2033, ORF reports. Friuli Venezia Giulia will fund a feasibility study in Tarvis with €100,000, while the state of Carinthia, Villach and Kranjska Gora are supporting the project.

The study will assess whether a joint application is realistic and how it could be developed. The three towns will also need to agree on a shared concept. Tarvis Mayor Renzo Zanette said concrete plans would be drawn up in the coming weeks and months for inclusion in the study.

Mario Anzil, vice-president of Friuli Venezia Giulia, described the project as a chance to highlight the meeting of Latin, Slavic and Germanic cultures. He said the region viewed borders not as an endpoint but as an opportunity for friendship.

Carinthia Governor Daniel Fellner said the proposal would send a strong signal about European unity. Villach Mayor Günther Albel said a joint application by three cities in neighboring countries would underline the city’s “borderless” motto. Kranjska Gora Mayor Henrika Zupan said the plan could benefit cultural development, tourism and the region’s international profile.

The proposal follows the example of Gorizia and Nova Gorica, which jointly held the European Capital of Culture title in 2025. Pordenone is due to be one of the European Capitals of Culture next year.