On 12 October 2012 it was announced that Valletta, the capital city of Malta, will be hosting the title of European Capital of Culture in 2018 with a partner Dutch city, Leeuwarden. In line with EU regulations the Valletta 2018 Foundation has been made responsible for the implementation of the Cultural Programme to promote a European dimension and encourage citizen participation. The Cultural Programme is built around four themes: Generations, Routes, Cities and Islands.

The Valletta 2018 Foundation have launched a Cultural Programme to make Valletta 2018 an island-wide “festa” (feast):

“WHEN YOU LIVE ON AN ISLAND, THE HORIZON ALWAYS HOLDS THE PROMISE OF NEW AND EXCITING CONNECTIONS TO BE MADE, WHILE THE SHORE DRAWS YOU BACK HOME TO A WEALTH OF DETAIL THAT’S JUST WAITING TO BE EXPLORED.

Malta and Gozo can be likened to tiny but vibrant stages packed with drama, excess and exuberance constantly playing out in close quarters, amid tight-knit communities; all the while, these small island scenarios have co-existed with the comings and goings afforded by our harbours, and today they walk alongside ever-growing international connections.

The strategic geography of the Maltese Islands – which places them right between Europe and Africa – thus puts our communities in a unique position to host such a diverse cultural celebration as the European Capital of Culture. And our Mediterranean style is another valuable feature of the islands’ identity, capable of reaching out to the varied and valuable perspectives that surround it.”