Leuven has been selected to represent Belgium as the European Capital of Culture in 2030. The announcement was made Wednesday at the Royal Library of Belgium in Brussels, with the city
chosen over Namur and Sint-Jans-Molenbeek.
Belgium will share the title with Cyprus, as two cities have been designated each year since 2004. Leuven’s selection marks the fifth time a Belgian city will host the honour, following Antwerp (1993), Brussels (2000), Bruges (2002) and Mons (2015).
First launched in 1985, the European Capital of Culture programme has become one of the continent’s most significant cultural initiatives, celebrating Europe’s diversity while fostering exchange and connection among its citizens.
International perspective
Leuven’s international character, bolstered by its renowned university and vibrant arts schools, played a key role in its victory. The jury noted the city’s willingness to confront its complex history—such as through the Sanda Dia mural—while praising its rich mix of cultural and natural landmarks, from the Grote Markt and Naamsestraat to the surrounding countryside and the Meerdaal Forest.
Other contenders
Namur highlighted its celebrated KIKK digital arts festival, its historic city centre, folklore traditions, and the famous *échasseurs Namurois* stilt walkers. Recently ranked the fifth-best European destination ahead of Amsterdam and Prague, Namur showcased both heritage and innovation in its bid.
Molenbeek, meanwhile, sought to overturn negative perceptions, emphasising its lively cultural scene. Home to one of Europe’s largest circus communities alongside numerous theatre and dance groups, the municipality underscored its youthful energy—one in three residents is under 20. Despite these efforts, political deadlock in Brussels weakened its chances.
What’s next
Upcoming Capitals of Culture include Oulu (Finland) and Trencín (Slovakia) in 2026, followed by Liepaja (Latvia) and Évora (Portugal) in 2027. The spotlight will then move to cities in the Czech Republic, France, North Macedonia, Poland and Sweden, before Leuven and Cyprus’s representative take centre stage in 2030. Photo by Pere López Brosa, Wikimedia commons.