What does ‘Capital of Culture’ mean?
On 4 June 2003 it was announced that the city of Liverpool had been chosen as the UK’s nomination to be European Capital of Culture in 2008, as part of a European Union programme which aims both to recognise cultural excellence and to encourage new cultural innovation. The report on the six cities shortlisted for the title, issued by the government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport, stated that ‘The purpose of the title is not simply to highlight existing cultural excellence, but to encourage cities to develop and innovate in the cultural field. It will be an opportunity to show that culture is central to the life of a city, and demonstrate its contribution to regeneration, social inclusion, education and business.’ Liverpool’s bid was based on the theme of ‘The World in One City’ and included three supporting themes called Create, Participate and Regenerate. The Capital of Culture programme A new organisation, The Liverpool Culture Company, was set up by Liverpool City Council
