Chemnitz named European Capital of Culture after controversy

The Eastern German city of Chemnitz will be a European Capital of Culture in 2025. The decision was originally announced in October 2020, but then thrown into question due to complaints of nepotism.

Chemnitz beat four other cities – Hanover, Hildesheim, Magdeburg and Nuremberg – to the nomination. The decision was made by a panel of 12 independent experts – two appointed by German authorities and 10 by EU institutions and bodies.

An investigation was launched after it was alleged that members of the panel had connections to the Chemnitz bid. The investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing.

Commented EU commissioner Mariya Gabriel: “I hope that Chemnitz will reap the long-term cultural, economic and social benefits that the European Capital of Culture title can bring.”

Nova Gorica in Slovenia won the second Capital of Culture spot for 2025. The other nominated cities were Ljubljana, Piran and Ptuj.

ec.europa.eu