Victoria, Gozo shortlisted to become European Capital of Culture 2031

Victoria, Gozo has been shortlisted to hold the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture (ECoC) 2031, a major recognition that could bring substantial cultural and economic benefits to the island.

The announcement was made by EU expert Suvi Innilä following a two-day pre-selection meeting held at the Valletta Design Cluster. An independent panel of experts, appointed by the European Commission and national authorities, reviewed bids from Victoria (Gozo) and Vittoriosa (Birgu), selecting only Victoria to move forward.

While Birgu’s bid did not make the final list, Victoria now moves forward to the next phase of evaluation. The city will have until September 2026 to present its final cultural programme, demonstrating its vision for culture-led regeneration, sustainable development and community engagement.

If successful, Victoria will be the second Maltese city to hold the title after Valletta in 2018, an event widely credited with revitalising Malta’s cultural and tourism landscape.

Winning the ECoC title would channel EU and Government funding into Gozo to support a year-long series of cultural events. Beyond arts and culture, the initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, enhance Gozo’s visibility on the European stage, and attract investment in creative industries, infrastructure and sustainable tourism.

The European Capital of Culture initiative, launched in 1985, aims to showcase the diversity of European cultures while fostering urban regeneration and social cohesion through cultural initiatives.