Victoria, Gozo, has been pre-selected by an independent panel of experts appointed by the European Union to continue Malta’s journey toward the European Capital of Culture 2031. The final decision as to the winner will be decided in September 2026.

Minister for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government Owen Bonnici congratulated Victoria and the hard work of the team behind the bid for the achievement.

“This recognition reflects Gozo’s strong cultural vision, creative ambition, and sustainable development through the arts. Well done to all involved,” said the Minister.

He added that, “there is still a long, hard way to go but I am confident that Victoria and all Gozo will rise to the occasion.”

For the presentation, a speech had been delivered to the jury by Victoria Mayor Brian Azzopardi, this was followed by a 40-minute presentation by the artistic and strategic teams, with the closing remarks for the presentation delivered by the Chairman of the Vict31 Foundation and President of the Gozo Region, Dr Samuel Azzopardi.

A question and answer session followed which were posed by the jury members. Then to finish the Victoria Mayor closed the session with a speech to the jury as to why Victoria deserves to be selected as the European Capital of Culture 2031.

File photo: Gozo News/Mario Xerri

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