The title of European Capital of Culture was initiated more than 30 years ago by Melina Mercouri, a Greek-born actress and Minister of Culture, and has been one of the most important projects of the EU's cultural policy ever since. As the voice of the arts, it conveys the message that European culture is common, and it is always the result of cultural activity in each region. With their local cultural product, Veszprém and the Bakony-Balaton region will become the focus of European attention, thus improving the image of the city, increasing the efficiency of the local creative industry and its touristic appeal.
Veszprém is one of the most charming cities of Hungary with its unique natural treasures and cultural values. Surrounded by the hills of Bakony and the Balaton Uplands, the town lies in a picturesque land that is worth visiting during the whole year. Being one of the oldest urban areas of the region, it preserves the historic characteristics of multiple ages. By today, Veszprém is among the most attractive touristic destinations of the region. The Castle District with its beautiful parochial and historic buildings, the lively pedestrian street with its cafés and restaurants or the famous Veszprém Zoo is really worth a visit and will provide a unique experience for every generation.
Within the framework of the programme the organizers aim to launch a creative cultural region with Veszprém and its cultural hub. Therefore, they offer a wide range of exciting activities. Those who are interested may take part in concerts, music and dance events, exhibitions, playful educational events
and gourmet experiences. Although the European Capital of Culture title ends on December 31, 2023, the programme is structured to create a base for the innovative community and put Veszprém and the region on the map for Hungarian and foreign visitors.
Besides serving as the host of the European Cultural capital programme, the City of Queens also functions as a university town. The University of Pannonia is a leading higher education institution of the Central-Transdanubian region. The university was established in 1949 and went through numerous stages of expansion. Today it has 5 faculties operating on 5 separate campuses and offers a wide scale of programmes and cutting-edge research activities for more than 5000 students. Its programmes cover almost all education fields from engineering, media studies to economics and various social sciences, with nearly 60 majors at all degree levels.
Due to its high-quality education and student-friendly environment, the university is getting more and more popular among international students as well. It provides more than 25 degree programs in English at Bachelor’s, Masters and PhD level for nearly 400 international students from about 65 countries all over the world. Besides, for all culture lovers, the University’s Cultural Centre regularly organises various music events, exhibitions and plays. The university provides a number of sports events as well, such as the Balaton Regatta rowing competition or the University Sports Days.
If you want to delve deeper into the hidden beauties of the Hungarian countryside or thinking about studying at Veszprém, visit the website of Veszprém-Balaton 2023 and the University of Pannonia!
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