The University of Tartu is the oldest of its kind in the Baltic States. (dpa Photo)
Gateway to south
Tartu will probably never emerge from the shadow of the Estonian capital Tallinn, but it’s now at least bringing more international attention to the southern part of the Baltic country. The area around the city has been incorporated into the Capital of Culture celebrations, which include over a thousand events.
“We are the gateway to the south, which covers a quarter of Estonia, where a unique culture remains alive to this day,” explains communications expert Kaidi-Lisa Kivisalu, citing five local languages as an example.
Tartu itself is home to the oldest university in the Baltics. The dynamic university city of 100,000 inhabitants is famous for both its historic old town and its numerous startups.
According to Kivisalu, a million visitors are expected, with 7% to 10% coming from abroad. The main theme is “Arts of Survival” and is linked to the “knowledge, skills and values that will help us lead a good life in the future,” according to the organizers.
That may sound rather vague, but there are highlights planned throughout the year. These include an exhibition by the contemporary porcelain and textile artist Kris Lemsalu from March 16 to July 21 at the Tartu Art Museum, the Viljandi Dance Days from April 25 to 29 (“Arts of survival – ecological footprint in dance and performing arts”) and a concert by pop star Sting on June 10.
Bad Ischl Salzkammergut has a spa resort with a royal villa attached. (dpa Photo)
Arctic, slightly crazy
“The first European Capital of Culture north of the Arctic Circle” – this is how people are celebrating in Bodo, which is located in the Salten region in northern Norway and has a population of just 54,000. The Vestfjorden leaves its mark on the area. The people of Bodo and the surrounding region are determined to make the most of this unique opportunity to present themselves to the world.
Marketing director Helge Gronmo is promising: “The real superstar of the program is the wide variety. With over a thousand events to choose from, there’s something for everyone. And many of the events will be free.” It’s the biggest cultural happening to take place in Norway in over a decade, with events also planned for the surrounding area and further afield.
The Sami people and their traditions and folklore will play a part in the celebrations. On several dates between Feb. 15 and April 21, visitors will have the chance to meet the Sami and their culture in Bodo, in an event titled “Visit reindeer.”
The Sami New Year celebrations are at the beginning of May, followed by “Sami Language Days” at the end of September and a food market on Dec. 7 and 8; the venue is the Sami Cultural Centre in Bodo.
Additional highlights include the “Marcialonga Arctic Ski Race” on March 9 and what is affectionately labeled as “Midsummer Madness.” Visitors will get to experience the craziness of the summer solstice with fires, music, dance and theater. The head of Marketing Gronmo promises: “It will be a feast for the senses.”
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Source link : https://www.dailysabah.com/arts/2024s-culture-capitals-keep-spotlight-on-unpopular-cities-of-europe/news
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Publish date : 2024-02-07 08:00:00
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