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Information on the Matter at Hand:

Historical City of Bourges, France

Unconventional Activities: Exploring the Realm of the Unusual
Unconventional Activities: Exploring the Realm of the Unusual

Information on the Matter at Hand:

Bourges, France, a city steeped in history and rich in culture, has been awarded the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture 2028. The city, home to around 66,500 people, will share the honour with Budweis (Czech Republic) and Skopje (North Macedonia).

The journey to this achievement began in September 2022, when Mayor Yann Galut visited Augsburg, Germany. The visit was part of Bourges' application for the title, and it marked the beginning of a fruitful exchange between the two cities.

During his stay, Galut visited the Gaswerk, a creative hub housing artist studios and play areas, and learned about Augsburg's UNESCO World Heritage site, the Historic Water Management System. He was also welcomed by Mayor Eva Weber, who congratulated her counterpart on the achievement and expressed her excitement for future cultural exchange projects.

Culture Commissioner JΓΌrgen K. Enninger of Augsburg also extended his congratulations and looked forward to more cooperation opportunities. In response, Bourges plans to involve Augsburg artists in the European Cultural Trains between the two cities in 2028.

Historically, Bourges was the capital of the Kingdom of Aquitaine during the Gallo-Roman period and served as the capital of France under King Charles VII. Today, it stands as the capital of the Cher department in the Centre region of France, known for its charming medieval houses, palaces, and the largest protected historical site in France, featuring the churches Notre-Dame, Saint-Pierre-le-Guillard, Saint Bonnet, the Jacques Coeur and Lallemant palaces, the regional museum, the courthouse, and more.

The city's cultural house offers more than 40 events annually with almost 90 performances, including theater, classical music, dance, singing, jazz, and opera. Sustainability is at the forefront of Bourges' plans for the European Capital of Culture events in 2028, with a focus on promoting sustainable mobility and using train connections for cultural networking to significantly reduce CO2 emissions.

The distance between the twin cities is approximately 651 kilometers, a distance that promises to be bridged by the shared love for culture and the desire for mutual growth and learning. The "Association Franco-Allemand du Cher", the Franco-German Society of the Department of Cher and Bourges' partner city, has already played a significant role in fostering this relationship, with visits to Augsburg's Christmas market and a delegation from Bourges visiting the St. Moritz parish in November 2022.

As the cultural exchange between Bourges and Augsburg continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the future holds exciting opportunities for both cities. With the European Capital of Culture title in hand, Bourges is poised to showcase its rich heritage and vibrant culture to the world, while fostering deeper connections with its twin city, Augsburg.

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