The Cultural Capitals of Europe were created by the Ministers of Culture of the European Community.
In November 1983, Melina Mercouri, then the Greek Minister of Culture, proposed that Europe name a "European City of Culture" each year.

The event was conceived in order to help bring together different cultures.
To be named as Cultural Capital of Europe represents an unparalleled opportunity to assert the city's identity on the European cultural map, as well as generating important media and tourism interest.