To support Broumov as the European Capital of Culture, over 100 million is to be allocated

Hradec Králové - The Hradec Králové Region will provide a subsidy of 107.2 million crowns to the Broumov Foundation - City of Culture, if it succeeds in the contest for the European Capital of Culture 2028 (EHMK). The region's goal is to support Broumov in the Náchod area, which has reached the finals of the competition. The disbursement of the subsidy will be spread over the years 2023 to 2029, averaging 11.2 million crowns per year, said the spokesperson of the regional government, Dan Lechmann, to ČTK today. The regional representatives approved the provision of the subsidy today.

"The condition for the subsidy is to gain the title of European Capital of Culture, and the decision will be made in June this year. The money will go towards partially covering program expenses, marketing and communication, production, or operating costs," Lechmann told ČTK today.

If Broumov does not win the title, the budget framework for the period 2024 to 2029 will become invalid. The region is the main partner in Broumov's candidacy for EHMK 2028.

"This is financing for this year and the next six years. The condition for drawing funds is that Broumov succeeds in the competition with České Budějovice," said regional councilor for regional development Adam Valenta (Pirates).

An international jury selected Broumov along with České Budějovice for the finals of the contest for the title of EHMK 2028 last October. In partnership with the Hradec Králové Region, Broumov succeeded with its concept of Creative Pilgrimage, which is based on connecting wild nature, resilient culture, and trust in vibrant communities in Europe. In the past, Broumov and its surroundings were a significant region in Europe thanks to the Benedictines and the work of prominent Baroque builders Kryštof and Kilián Ignác Dientzenhofer.

The leadership of the region considers the city's candidacy for the title of EHMK 2028 a unique opportunity to return the significance of the border town of Broumov and its surroundings as a meeting and learning place of various cultures and traditions. "It would probably be the historically smallest city to receive this title. In similar regions like Broumov, about 30 percent of the EU population lives. If Broumov and its surroundings succeed with their candidacy, it could be an inspiration with international reach," Valenta said.

Through the title of EHMK, Broumov aims to strengthen cultural and artistic communities at both national and international levels, develop cultural tourism, support active involvement of residents in the development of European small towns and rural areas, and attract creative young people, representatives of the city and region stated.

According to the regional leadership, the anticipated influx of money to Broumovsko in case of winning the title of EHMK is around 500 million crowns. "This is a socially weaker area, which we prefer. We have the ambition to succeed in cooperation with the organizers and partners in this project," said governor Martin Červíček (ODS).

The title of EHMK is awarded annually by the European Union, providing cities with the opportunity to showcase their cultural life and its development to Europe. Each year, two member states are selected, and in 2028, it will be the Czech Republic and France. In more than 35 years, the title has been awarded to two Czech cities, Prague in 2000 and Pilsen 15 years later.