The European Capitals of Culture is a year-long event that celebrates the diversity of cultures in Europe, Euronews reported.

Every year a new city becomes the European Capital of Culture and the initiative is an opportunity to discover the cultural richness of the continent. The ambitious year-long itinerary is carefully designed by field experts and local residents, so the event is a platform for regional creativity.

Matera (Italy) and Plovdiv (Bulgaria) are the 2019 European Capitals of Culture, the contest was one of the toughest ever, with 21 initial contenders. A number that represents the tremendous popularity of the event.

For visitors the event guarantees beautiful cities alongside an extensive list of cultural activities and spectacular public events.