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Liverpool: European Capital of Culture

liverpool european capital of culture Liverpool is a bustling city of 800,000 and is steeped in maritime history as it was the second city created by the British Empire and its port was Britain's gateway to the world for decades. The iconic architecture alone is worth the trip but the city has much more to offer than that.

If you have not visited Liverpool before, this is without question the year to go. Liverpool has been a 'best kept secret' destination for years, but after recently being named the European Capital of Culture for 2008, that is about to change.

"Liverpool will become a cultural beacon of the world. Capital of Culture is a wonderful accolade. It is fabulous. You are a wonderful city. I am so glad you won." Tessa Jowell, Culture Secretary.

Being named European Capital of Culture 2008 was arguably the greatest day in Liverpool's recent history.

While typically August would be the height of festival season in Liverpool, this year every month is chock full of cultural events and festivities. We're talking 350 events throughout 2008 and 70% of which are totally free to attend. Perhaps the two biggest highlights of the year will be the Gustav Klimt exhibit at Tate Liverpool from May 30 to August 1 and the Liverpool Sound concert on June 1, featuring Sir Paul McCartney.

"I'm very excited about Liverpool being the European Capital of Culture in 2008. We have a fantastic series of events which are sure to get you excited too. I'm very proud of the city and I look forward to welcoming you all and showing you a good time. Its going to be a great year." - Sir Paul McCartney

Much in the same way that Expo '67 and Expo '86 transformed and evolved Montreal and Vancouver into world-class cities, European Capital of Culture is expected to do the same for Liverpool.

Here are some links for you to learn more about Liverpool and the festivities planned for European Capital of Culture 2008.

- Lonely Planet's Overview of Liverpool
- Official Tourism Web Site for City of Liverpool
- Official Web Site for European Capital of Culture 2008: Liverpool
- BBC's Guide to Liverpool 2008
- .PDF Download Guide / Schedule for all cultural events planned in Liverpool for 2008

TAGS: culture england events festival liverpool uk