European Capital of Culture 2010

2009-06-01

Coming forward with its unique historical accumulation and splendid natural beauties, also successfully undersigning several international events in recent years, Istanbul has been selected as “2010 European Culture Capital”.

Preparing for the Culture Capital title with the efforts of Metropolitan Municipality, Istanbul Governorship and 2010 European Culture Capital Coordination Board, the city has been transformed into a city of tourism with congresses, fairs, cultural, art and sports activities. Racing with the world’s renowned capital cities in these fields, Istanbul has leaped to 17th position up from 49th position in the congress tourism in the last couple of years. Hosting 43 important congresses this year, the city aims to be among the top 10.

Renewing its infrastructure in conceivably all fields, Istanbul has been applauded loud for its successful hosting of international organizations of Champions League Football Final Match, Formula 1, Moto GP and Red Bull Air Race. Being expected to host several global sports, culture and congress events until 2010, the city will host UEFA Final Cup, World Water Forum, IMF World Bank Congress in 2009 and European Culture Capital, World Basketball Championship and METREX (European Metropolitan Regions and Fields Network) Grand Congress. The greatest goal for Istanbul, that will host World Salon Athletism Championship in 2012, is to host the Olympics in 2020…

More infos under:

http://www.istanbul2010.org/en/