On 8 February 2025, Nova Gorica and Gorizia will launch their European Capital of Culture (ECoC) 2025 journey, marking a historic first for a cross-border ECoC. United under the slogan “GO! Borderless,” the two cities embody a shared vision of transcending barriers and fostering unity. Their successful joint bid for the ECoC title was itself groundbreaking, as the first-ever transnational application in the program’s history.
The cross-border ECoC GO! 2025 is centered on the principle of an intentionally open border, celebrating the rich heritage and diversity that thrive on both sides of the border. The concept of a “borderless capital”, serving as a living laboratory for deeper cooperation across nations with different political systems, languages and cultures, is not only symbolic but profoundly relevant in today’s climate. As Europe faces a resurgence of border controls and heightened restrictions, the project offers a bold and hopeful counter-narrative, underscoring the urgency of fostering openness, dialogue, and cultural exchange.
The programme of GO! 2025 focuses on four fundamental pillars: i) conflict and reconciliation, focusing on the turbulent history of the region, ii) innovation, iii) cultural exchange across borders and iv) sustainable and zero-waste events and activities.
You can follow the GO! 2025 activities and projects here.