by InTrieste
Thousands of residents and visitors filled the central squares of Gorizia and Nova Gorica this weekend in an emotional celebration of their shared designation as the European Capital of Culture 2025. The twin cities, separated by history but linked by culture and geography, came together in a moment of symbolic unity, underscored by the presence of Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar.
Applauded by a jubilant crowd, the two leaders stood side by side as music, speeches, and cultural performances turned the border-spanning event into an electrifying spectacle. “This is history,” said one resident, his voice barely rising above the cheers of the gathering. “We are finally one city, one people.”
For decades, Gorizia and Nova Gorica have embodied the complex history of the region, divided by shifting borders and political realities. Once separated by the Iron Curtain, the cities have spent the last two decades fostering cross-border cooperation, culminating in their joint selection as the European Capital of Culture—an honor that highlights their cultural and historical ties.
The celebration featured a diverse array of performances, from classical orchestras to contemporary artists, showcasing the cities’ rich artistic heritage. Local officials emphasized the significance of the designation, calling it not only a moment of recognition but also a promise for the future. “This is more than a title,” said one organizer. “It is a commitment to working together, to erasing boundaries not just on maps, but in minds.”
As the festivities carried on late into the night, the sense of optimism was palpable. The two cities—one Italian, one Slovenian—had long been neighbors. On this night, they were something more: a shared cultural capital, a unified community, and a living testament to a future without borders.
