Strategic plan Limassol 2017

«Limassol 2017» - Strategy and Action 2013-2017

«Limassol 2017» Strategy and Action 2013-2017

«Limassol 2017» - Strategy and Action 2013-2017

Contents 1.

Introduction

3

2.

Summary of bid

5

3.

The city of Limassol

8

4.

Evaluation of the city and the area

17

5.

Exploiting the Potential of the City and the Surrounding Area

18

6.

Vision

27

7.

Strategic Objective

30

8.

Thematic Structure of “Limassol 2017”

32

9.

Expected Results, Evaluation and Impact

49

10.

Procedure for drawing up the “Limassol 2017” Programme

52

11.

Events and Activities Selection Process

59

12.

Schedule, Organization structure, Budget

64

13.

Schedule of activities

85

14.

Synopsis

88

Appendices Ι. ΙΙ. ΙΙΙ. ΙV. V.

Existing Institutions/Events European Programmes and Networks Cultural Infrastructures History of Limassol Limassol and Wine

89 93 94 100 104

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1.

Introduction

Following the decision to compete for the title of European Capital of Culture (ECOC) a team of experts, selected by tender, has undertaken in May 2011 the preparation of the candidacy document for the city of Limassol and the drawing up of a Strategy and Action plan.

The document comprises the Strategic Planning for the implementation of the cultural policy of the city of Limassol for the period beginning with the preparations for the submission of the city‟s bid for the title European Capital of Culture (ECOC), it covers the preparation period for the implementation of the 2013-2017 Programme, it focuses on the 2017 cultural Programme (and all parameters) and it extends to the post-2017 period.

Limassol has undergone enormous and rapid development in recent years, through a series of projects dealing with infrastructural issues, remodeling and upgrading, with investment from the Municipal Authorities as well as both the public and private sectors. The objective of the Strategic Planning has been the harmonious interlinking of a Cultural Strategy with economic and social development in the framework of an integrated urban policy.

Our ambition is to see the “Limassol 2017” Programme remembered in the history of Limassol as one of the most important events ever to have taken place in the city and in the country as a whole, and for it to serve as a “cultural compass” for coming generations.

Emphasis is being placed on the planning of a prestigious cultural programme and an original series of events characterized by high and demanding specifications, artistic and cultural quality and on the potential for their successful implementation by the “Limassol 2017” organization, giving particular importance to the essential organizational structure and the appropriate and required budget.

Particular significance is being given to the ancient Greek term “poliada koinotita” which translates as “city community” and stresses the initial and basic cell, the core of the city, the community: a community of people, a social, political and cultural community; a community which sets objectives and reflects; a community with vision; a community with a way of life; a community of thought and action.

The Greek word for “culture” is “politismos”, from the words “polis” (city) and “politis” (citizen) and in this sense the Strategy both originates from and aims at the city and its citizens. This major undertaking to promote the candidacy of the city of Limassol and to compete for the title requires that all citizens come together and that all the official bodies of the city and the greater area lend their broadest support and participation.

Greater Limassol consists of five Municipalities: Limassol, Germasogia, Polemidia, Agios Athanasios and Mesa Geitonia. Limassol is the second largest city in Cyprus and Limassol Municipality is not only the largest of these five municipalities but the largest in Cyprus in terms of both area and population, which is why Limassol is justifiably referred to as the “joint capital” of the island.

From the outset, Greater Limassol has been selected as the area where the ECOC events will take place, with the participation and support of the above five Municipalities. At the same time, P age |3

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activities will be planned throughout the broader Limassol area, especially in village communities of particular cultural interest and with special links to the city.

From the preparatory stage of competing for the title, existing partnerships in Europe are being exploited, new ones are being forged and everyone is thinking creatively and coming up with ideas, many of which will be transformed into projects through the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

It goes without saying that there will be benefits to the city and its citizens and to all those involved, irrespective of the fate of Limassol‟s candidacy, but these are expected to be maximized when the title is finally awarded and a complete and integrated Programme is implemented.

The Strategy and Action document backs up the answers to the application questionnaire, it describes and analyses the structured process of implementing the cultural strategy, starting with the evaluation, the definition of the vision and objectives and ending with the design of the Programme for the year of the European Capital of Culture. At every stage of the process, the ECOC concept is taken into account and the expected results and benefits are determined.

The Strategy and Action plan will be extended and finalized during the selection phase.

The organizational chart below summarizes the structured process for the study and preparation of the Strategy and Action document.

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2.

Summary of bid

With the aim of obtaining the title European Capital of Culture, the long voyage towards the destination that is the city‟s Programme for 2017 has begun. The words of Constantine Cavafy, one of the most important Greek poets of the modern era, are characteristic, as he described Odysseas‟ journey to Ithaka.

“As you set out for Ithaka hope the voyage is a long one, full of adventure, full of discovery.

Keep Ithaka always in your mind.

Arriving there is what you are destined for.

But do not hurry the journey at all.

Better if it lasts for years, so you are old by the time you reach the island, wealthy with all you have gained on the way, not expecting Ithaka to make you rich.”

Constantine Kavafis Culture is both a destination and a process and through the process comes the benefit, overcoming obstacles and dangers, gaining experiences and knowledge, always looking forward to arriving at the final destination. 2017 will be a special year and the city of Limassol will celebrate the success of reaching the final destination, having taken on board all that is required for the next voyage.

The long voyage, however, begins with bad weather and stormy seas. The whole of Europe is still being buffeted by the effects of the global financial crisis while many neighbouring countries are experiencing social unrest and a great deal of questioning. Culture is nothing less than a catalyst for solutions and answers to all these passing challenges.

Main elements of the bid Vision

Limassol‟s Vision involves building the future based on its past achievements, its history and traditional values, and making the most of its significant role in linking Europe and the Mediterranean and, with Culture as a Compass, by way of balanced cultural, economic and social development, to maximize the prosperity and quality of life of its people.

«With Culture as a compass»

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A trip “with culture as a compass” from Mediterranean to Europe.

The historical ties between Cyprus and Europe and the neighboring Mediterranean countries, the good neighboring relationship and the acceptance of Cypriots in these countries are particular elements of the programme, to strengthen cooperation and dialogue between the Mediterranean and Europe. This element of the Programme complies with the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) aimed at strengthening cooperation between the European Union (EU) and other countries along the Mediterranean coast.

A trip “with culture as a compass” from history to the future The future of the city is built on its history, its characteristics and its experiences. Dominant elements of the city is the sea, the port and the trails left by all the peoples who passed through the city. In contrast to the occasional foreign invasions in coastal Limassol, "invasion" of artists and visitors is expected in 2017, from the very same countries that had left their trails in the city.

Strategic Objective

The Strategic Objective is the reinforcement of cultural policies and linking them with the city‟s social, economic and environmental policies through the design, preparation, implementation and monitoring of a noteworthy cultural Programme for 2017 under the theme “Metamorphosis”.

Slogan

«Metamorphosis» Metamorphosis in the way that citizens look at their city, the limits of thought and the prospects for development and modern joint European creativity.

Metamorphosis through infrastructure and urban character projects, in remodelling and improving the city‟s historical and modern buildings and squares and upgrading cultural assets and equipment necessary for the creation and development of a cultural dimension.

Programme «Limassol 2017»

with the following main thematic groups:

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Characteristics of Limassol

The hard of joy, a city of fun, the cosmopolitan coastal city with the important annual events, the port city, regional and European economic, cultural and maritime center.

Features of the city

A large number of cultural institutions and organizations, availability of excellent venues for organizing events, potential of private sector and foreign companies based in Limassol, special temperament of Limassolians and their participative record.

Exploiting Experiences

Tendency and experience in organizing dozens of events annually from emerging artists and amateur groups to large professional performances involving internationally renowned artists and artistic groups (Jose Carreras, George Dalaras, Moscow Opera, Kirov Ballet, etc.).

Experience in securing sponsors, Experience in organizing large events in open spaces, squares, docks, parking backfill, archaeological sites, warehouses.

Experience in organizing successful events with the joint participation of famous artists and young emerging artists.

Ambition

Our ambition is to see the ECOC 2017 Programme remembered in the history of Limassol as one of the most important events ever to have taken place in the city and in the country as a whole, and for it to serve as a “cultural compass” for coming generations.

Results/Impact

Confirmation and promotion of the cultural/multicultural image of Limassol.

Improvements to cultural infrastructures and services to encourage creativity.

Strengthening of Limassol as regional, economic and business center.

Long-term cultural, social and economic benefits for future generations.

Participation

The broad and interactive participation of citizens, visitors, cultural operators, artists and the private sector, is encouraged in all stages.

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3.

The city of Limassol

The city of Limassol is being transformed, developed and changed. The city is planning and building its future on the foundations of its history and culture which, through the millennia, has been a beacon in the Mediterranean region and the cornerstone of the old continent.

The passage of the centuries has not altered the significance or the importance of the city which, like a small oasis at the crossroads of three continents – Europe, Asia and Africa – from the depths of antiquity, during the Middle Ages and at the time of the crusades, on the silk and perfume routes of the East, during Venetian and Genoa commercial domination, to the present day, has played and continues to play its important role in hosting the amalgam of civilizations of East and West and shaping the region‟s history.

The city of Limassol in the last century

The city of Limassol today

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Basic Information – Cyprus Population : 803.000.

Governance : Independent Democracy since 1960 Language: Official language is Greek and Turkish.

The English language is widespread. Russian, French and German are languages used in tourism.

Basic Information – Limassol

Currency : Euro (€) = 100 cents

Population : 180.000 Information : www.visitcyprus.com Location : South coast of Cyprus Information : www.limassoltourism.com

3.1

History of Culture in Limassol

Limassol is proud to have been a cradle of culture in the modern history of Cyprus.

Following the domination of Franks and the Venetians and the long Ottoman period, during which for over 400 years there was almost no cultural activity at all, during the very first years of British colonial rule (from 1878), Limassol became a leader in all sectors of the island‟s economy, in its education, its social struggles and its culture.

It became a dynamic, progressive and rapidly developing city and a pioneer in many areas that touched upon culture in the greatest possible manner:

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Limassol was the home of the very first theatrical performances, the first playwrights, the first novel written by a Cypriot, the first brass band and the first mandolin ensemble, the first symphony orchestra, the first staging of an opera, the first professional actors, the first theatres, the first literary societies/reading rooms where the first literary lectures were held, the first book to be printed in Cyprus, the first women‟s organization in Cyprus, the first art exhibitions, the first art school, the first woman painter, the first literary magazines and newspapers, the first children‟s magazine, the first daily newspaper, the first film screenings, the first purely Cypriot film, the first cinema to show talking pictures in Cyprus, the revival of the ancient Flower Festival, the first ballet performances

by Limassol dancers, the first sports club in Cyprus (and the second in the broader Greek world), the first all-island classical athletics meeting which selected the first Cypriot athlete to take part in the first Olympic Games of the modern era in Athens in 1896 (the Limassolian Anastasios Andreou) and much more.

This cultural dominance of Limassol lasted until 1960 when the Republic of Cyprus was established and such activities gravitated towards the capital due to the centralization of the state.

After 1974, however, Limassol began to regain its lost dynamic once more and it retook the initiative to become a centre not only in other sectors but also for the country‟s main cultural and artistic activities.

Cultural spaces, artistic groups, choirs, dance schools and workshops, dance and theatre companies, major popular events such as the Wine Festival, the Carnival, the celebration of “kataklysmos”, festivals and other major cultural events and annual institutions have made it a city of intense cultural activity, with its citizens attending such events en masse while people from all over Cyprus travel to Limassol to see them.

The annual celebration of the “kataklismos”, a major annual folk festival organized for decades on the coast of Limassol.

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3.2 Social Fabric of the City The present-day city of Limassol has a composite social and cultural environment which has been created over the passage of time and comprises a mosaic of communities who live together peacefully with the Greek Cypriots. Turkish Cypriots, Latins, Armenians, Maronites, Gypsies and other groups from over 25 nationalities mainly from Europe, Middle East and Asia, leave in Limassol since the old times.

In earlier times, a considerable number of local migrants, mainly from Paphos and the countryside, moved to Limassol because it was economically developed and was home to the first and indeed the most industries in the country.

After the Turkish invasion in 1974, a large section of the population of the eastern part of Cyprus, mainly from Famagusta, settled and still live in Limassol.

In the mid-Seventies, the mass registration of intrenational companies began, many of which established their offices here, taking advantage chiefly of the favorable tax regime for such companies, the superb environment of Cyprus in which they, their personnel and their families could settle down, and the services – telecommunications in particular – which were extremely advanced compared to those of other countries in the region. Most established their offices and their headquarters in Limassol. It is characteristic that the five largest ship management companies in the world, mainly German-owned, have their head offices in Limassol.

In the Nineties, following the changes in the former Soviet Union, Russian companies and investors began to arrive in Cyprus, the vast majority in Limassol. Russians preferred Limassol as the place in which to set up their offices, to purchase a second residence and to establish banks and other major offices and enterprises.

Since Cyprus‟s membership of the European Union in 2004 and the accession of Romania and Bulgaria during the 2006 enlargement, many EU citizens, mainly from Romania, Bulgaria, Poland and Greece, have chosen to settle in Cyprus, especially in Limassol.

With the global financial crisis of recent years and the turbulence in the countries of the Middle East and North Africa, Cyprus – as the isolated southeastern border of Europe – has become the first choice for asylum seekers and migrants from neighboring countries.

As a result, the relatively small city of 30,000 residents a few decades ago has suddenly grown into a large city of 180,000 people due to the movement here of a large population much bigger than its original one.

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3.3

Accessibility

Limassol lies almost equidistant from the other three main towns of Cyprus: the capital, Nicosia (60 minutes approx.), Larnaca (45 minutes approx.) and Paphos (40 minutes approx).

It is easily reached from the other towns via modern four-lane motorways while intercity public transport comprises large, modern, climate-controlled buses, minibuses and taxis. There is also a wide range of self-drive cars (saloon type and other models) available for rental.

Along the seafront there is a modern cycle path, currently few km in length with plans to extend it to 8km, and bicycles can be hired at very reasonable prices. Similarly, motorcycles of all sizes are available to rent at a reasonable charge. Along the entire length of the seafront road of Limassol and the neighboring Municipalities, there is a convenient walking path beside the sea that stretches for longer than 10 km. Large, modern buses ply routes between Limassol and all the villages in the district.

Modern pavement length approximately 10 km along the seafront

Urban public transport within the city consists of buses which have recently been upgraded to a fleet of comfortable, new vehicles. A large number of taxis charging reasonable fares provide another means of getting around the city.

The large and wide streets that criss-cross the city both horizontally and vertically make moving around easy and there is no serious traffic congestion.

Limassol has the largest commercial and tourist port in Cyprus . Almost all the country‟s imports and exports are moved through the port, which is also where almost all the large cruise ships sailing to and from the Middle East and Europe dock and depart from.

Although Limassol does not have its own airport, access to two airports in Cyprus, Larnaca and Paphos, becomes very fast with a taxi service and with Το λιμάνι της Λεμεσού P a g e | 12

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modern buses in less than one hour with service every half hour.

In conclusion it may be said that, despite the fact that Limassol (like the other cities of Cyprus) has neither a railway nor an underground system, due to the countryâ€&#x;s small size, short distances and modern motorways, travel throughout the whole of Cyprus is easy and convenient and takes the same amount of time that people need to get around major European cities.

The coastal front of Limassol 10 kilometers in length

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3.4

Economy

Due to the development and progress that the city underwent thanks to its hard working and inventive residents, within a century Limassol had become the island‟s leader in the fields of tourism, industry, finance, culture and the arts.

Limassol Port is the most important on the island, through which almost all the country‟s imports and exports are moved. At the same time, the city is an important centre or commerce, industry, tourism and services.

Limassol is home to a large number of commercial companies, traditional and modern, and is essentially the city where Cypriot industry began many decades ago with the establishment of the first carob processing meals, wineries and spirit production units. The „Big Four‟ Cypriot wine producers are here. Towards the end of the Sixties, industry took on a new dimension with the setting up in Limassol of the first industrial estate. Today there are three such industrial areas in the city and several Limassol-based industries, particularly the pharmaceutical industry which boasts two factories of international proportions, have gained a global reputation for their ultra-modern installations, production processes and exports to the five continents.

The beginning of tourism in Limassol dates from the 1930s, when the mountain resorts such as Platres and Troodos were popular with many distinguished visitors from abroad, including monarchs such as King Farouk of Egypt and King Abdullah of Jordan.

The dynamic development of tourism in Limassol began after Cypriot independence in 1960 with the creation of five- and four-star hotels to satisfy the demand for quality tourism of an everincreasing number of foreign visitors. Today, Limassol has more hotels and self-catering apartments in all categories than anywhere else in Cyprus. One indication of the quality of service provided by its hotels is the number of global awards that they have won repeatedly. These hotels, featuring the most technically-advanced equipment, also host the highest number of international and European conferences and seminars on the island. At the same time, Limassol is considered to be the number one city for entertainment and nightlife with the most restaurants, clubs and other related places.

Limassol‟s natural beauty, interesting archaeological sites, good beaches and a fascinating surrounding countryside, together with an excellent tourism infrastructure, have made the city a significant tourist destination in the Eastern Mediterranean. With the Municipality, the Chamber of Commerce & Industry and other related bodies playing a leading role, Limassol plans to implement other tourism infrastructure projects which will upgrade its tourism product, including the new marina (already under construction), three golf courses already in progress and a conference centre.

Limassol has also developed into a leading international services centre. A large number of internationally-renowned companies are active in or from Limassol in the sectors of commerce, marketing, consultancy services, banking and others. Of particular importance is the presence of shipping, thanks to which Limassol is now considered to be one of the world‟s largest P a g e | 14

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shipmanagement centres and the largest in the European Union. In addition to the international companies, there are many local service providers in Limassol such as banks, auditing firms, consultancies and shipping companies that make up an extremely dynamic section of the local economy.

The establishment in Limassol of the Cyprus University of Technology, which began operating in 2007, has already contributed a great deal to the upgrading of education, the further development of culture, research and the production of specialized human resources with an obvious positive effect on the city‟s economy.

Moreover, the Technology Park which is located in the Pentakomo area (15 minutes from Limassol) and is home to, among others, the Cyprus International Institute (CII) for the Environment and Public Health, set up in association with the Harvard School of Public Health, will boost sectors such as Research & Development and Innovation, contributing positively to the economy of Limassol and of Cyprus as a whole.

3.5

Tourism resources of the City and the Broader Area

Limassol has a noteworthy tourism infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants and nightclubs.

Hotels and other tourist accommodation CATEGORY Hotels 5* Hotels 4* Hotels 3* Hotels 2* Hotels 1* Guest houses Hotel Apartment Complexes Tourist Apartment Complexes

Eating, Drinking and Entertainment by category CATEGORY Restaurants, Tavernas Cafés Bars, Snack Bars Clubs Cabarets Nightclubs TOTAL

NUMBER 6 7 11 4 1 3 16 10

NUMBER 607 45 186 15 28 27 908

In Limassol there are 87 places of entertainment within hotels, 101 approved tour guides, 153 travel agencies (head offices) and 35 branches.

A total of 121 cruise liners and passenger ships are expected to dock at Limassol Port in 2011.

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3.6

The City of Fun and Entertainment

Limassol has a reputation as the city of fun and entertainment and its residents are known as funloving and creative with an artistic flair.

Limassol hosts the biggest annual events in Cyprus, attracting spectators from all over the island as well as many foreign visitors.

Consequently, Limassol is home to a large number of artistic groups and companies, dance and music schools as well as to the well-known serenades who perform the musical accompaniment to the annual Carnival celebrations, joining the thousands of people in fancy dress parading through the streets of the city.

Limassol attracts many local visitors to its beaches, shops, restaurants and nightclubs. It is a small metropolis which, during the summer in particular when the capital literally empties, is packed with people.

The annual Carnival celebrations involving tens of thousands of local and foreign visitors P a g e | 16

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4.

Evaluation of the city and the area STRONG POINTS

              

Geographical position Regional economic and cultural center International maritime center (the largest shipmanagement center in the EU) First choice for international conferences Coastal city and important hinterland Accessibility Southwestern gate of Europe Good neighborly relations with the countries of the region Given support from the local authorities Potential and ability to secure sponsors Great choice and quality of tourist accommodation First selection locally as a destination and nightlife resort Multicultural character City remains alive all year long Proven ability to manage large projects

WEAK POINTS   





PROSPECTS              

Exploiting partnerships and networks on a European level Exploiting the social fabric Exploiting the city’s cultural infrastructure Involving cultural bodies, artistic groups, music and dance schools etc.

Involving the Cyprus University of Technology Involving pupils from state and private schools (local and foreign students) Involving the private sector and Limassol-based international companies and their personnel Exploiting archaeological and cultural sites in Limassol and the broader area Involving the visitors of the city and the broader area Exploiting development projects that are nearing completion, especially those aimed at riving the city center Exploiting and upgrading of existing annual events Exploiting of local specialist themes – wine Considering Limassol personalities of international reputation Exploiting the Limassolians’ dynamism, interest and temperament

Remote European region Air travel from abroad has an added cost to the visitor compared to other European countries No important archeological sites within the city. The old Limassol (ancient Amathus known as old Limassol) is situated 7 km east of Limassol A major cultural and artistic potential trapped in local level, limited networking and partnership development Limited action at European level

PARAMETERS OF SUCCESS            

Level of citizens participation Level of involvement and participation of partners at European level Level of Programme execution according to the time schedule and budget Level of implementing quality at all levels Degree of participation of locals and visitors in the events Effectiveness of the Communication Strategy Level of visibility of the European Union Level of Financial Management Level of achieving the expected cultural, social and economic benefits Degree of involvement of volunteers Degree of involvement of sponsors and supports Level of management and control

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5.

Exploiting the Potential of the City and the Surrounding Area

Taking the assessment criteria into account, the objective of the cultural Strategy and the organization of the “Limassol 2017” Programme is to exploit the prospects presented by the city and the surrounding area, promoting the advantages of the city and the district and reducing to a minimum the effects of the disadvantages, bearing in mind the parameters of success.

Exploiting partnerships and networks on a European level: Limassol Municipality has developed a good number of partnerships, particularly in the framework of European Programmes and Networks.

The participation of Limassol Municipality in European Programmes for more than 15 years and the constant interest of the city‟s residents in the policies and Exploiting of European cultural and other actions of the European Union, as well as in the various programs (Culture, Lifelong Learning, funding programmes, led to the setting up of a Committee Youth, Citizenship, Multilingualism) for European Affairs within the Municipality.

Subsequently the Office for European Affairs was inaugurated in 2004, since when it has officially operated as the section of the Municipality which coordinates the European Programmes and networks in which the Municipality participates. It is also the contact point for citizens and the media for information on European issues.

It should be noted that the then Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Cyprus, Adriaan van der Meer, visited the office and officially opened it in April 2004.

Existing partnerships will be exploited with Limassol‟s twined and connected cities of Marseilles, Haifa, Zakynthos, Alexandria, Patras, Ioannina, Heraklion, Rhodes, Thessaloniki, Niederkassel, Nanjing and St. Petersburg, as well as cooperation with the Danish cities of Sonderborg and Aarhus which are also competing to become ECOC 2017, while relations can be exploited with neighbouring countries such as Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Greece, Italy, Spain, France and Malta as well as other countries of continental Europe.

Making the most of existing partnerships and creating new ones is a key aspect of the preparation and realization of the events and activities of the ECOC programme and of the long-term strategy.

Utilization of existing partnerships and creating new at European level

Exploiting the social fabric: Emphasis will be placed on the participation of the city‟s population as a whole, with special care taken over the handling of multicultural, multiethnic, multilingual, multi-religious and social integration issues.

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Exploiting the city’s cultural infrastructure: Good use will be made of the city‟s existing cultural infrastructure (exhibition spaces, theatres, libraries, museums, open spaces, squares, monuments, etc.) by using such places as event venues while, at the same time, promoting them with the aim of maximizing their visitor potential.

Industrial buildings Particular attention will be paid to making the most of the city‟s many old industrial buildings through their restoration and use either as industrial history museums or multi-purpose spaces (for example, the old Couvas Printing Works which has already been transformed into the Cyprus Theatre Museum and a multi-purpose space). Limassol Municipality, in cooperation with relevant Foundations and experts from Greece and Europe, has already held one related conference (June 2011) which will become an annual event with the purpose of achieving these aims.

Involving cultural bodies and artistic groups, music and dance schools, etc.: Involving cultural and artistic potential of Limassol and the region All the artistic resources of the city and the district will be encouraged to participate, giving everyone a chance to create with new ideas and models, to collaborate among themselves and form new partnerships in Cyprus and in other countries of the European Union.

For the size of its population, Limassol has a comparatively large number of children and young adults who belong to cultural associations, who attend dance, music and art schools and, in general, are involved in culture and the arts.

For this process, an Artistic Committee is being formed. It will have a purely supporting role and will consist of members covering the main areas of artistic creation (music, dance, theatre, photography, film, visual arts, architecture, sport, traditional arts, etc.)

The dance group of “Diastasis” cultural association of Limassol.

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Involving the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT): The University is based in Limassol and is located in the centre of the city. The University‟s role is of prime importance to the programme and it will have a significant participation in the events and activities, involving the students to a greater degree in the cultural life of Limassol.

The University will also undertake the process of evaluating the event.

Involving pupils from state and private schools: Young people are a main target group as it will fall to them to continue the ECOC legacy in the years to come. Making the most of pupils and involving them in all the events and activities will be crucial, especially in the volunteer section for which seminars and training programmes will be held.

Involving the private sector and Limassol-based international companies and their personnel: The private sector – in particular, the international companies based in Limassol – has always supported and aided the city‟s projects. The private sector, banks, companies and organizations will be encouraged to participate actively in this major organizational endeavour by offering services and financial support.

The process includes cooperation with the Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the Limassol Tourism Development & Promotion Company and other bodies. A key role will be played by the Support Group which is being formed especially for the programme and will be made up of 10-20 representatives of organizations and companies from the cultural, social and tourism sectors, chambers, associations, etc. The Group will offer support to Limassol Municipality and the “Limassol 2017” organization on strategic issues such as finance, partnerships, public relations, etc.

Exploiting archaeological and cultural sites in Limassol and the broader area: Limassol lacks important archaeological sites in the city centre, with a few exceptions such as the mediaeval castle which has links with the crusades and King Richard I (“the Lionheart”) of England.

Old Limassol or Amathus, an important archaeological site with the sanctuary of Aphrodite, settlements and a sunken harbour, lies some 7km to the east of the city. In the broader Amathus area, traces of human presence have been found dating to the Neolithic era.

Other important archaeological sites are located in the broader Limassol district: At Episkopi, the ancient settlement of Curium (Kourion) with the amphitheatre that still hosts performances today; the Temple of Apollo Hylates with superb spaces or events and performances; and the ancient Stadium, built in the 2nd century AD with a 6,000-spectator capacity.

The mediaeval castle at Kolossi was built in 1210 by the Knights of St. John and was the headquarters of their most important administrations.

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The village of Erimi is where one of the most important settlements of the chalcolithic era, dating from the 4th century BC, was discovered. It also hosts the only Wine Museum in Cyprus. Unique amphorae containing traces of wine dating from 5500 BC have been discovered in the area.

In the city of Limassol there are significant cultural centres, theatres, exhibition spaces and conference halls that fulfill the criteria for use and exploitation: The Pattichion Municipal Theatre, the Municipal Garden Theatre, the exhibition and conference spaces of the Evagoras & Kathleen Lanitis Foundation, the Limassol Archaeological Museum, the events and conference halls of the University, the Historical Archive, the Library and “Panos Solomonides” cultural center .

There are also noteworthy conference and exhibition spaces created by private initiative such as the transformation of the old KEO and Haggipavlu warehouses, the Limassol Port Authority warehouses, etc.

Rialto is a nonprofit organization, theater and cultural area which is mainly funded by the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Cooperative Savings Bank of Limassol.

The Municipal Theatre was built in1948-1949 and operated as a cinema/theatre. In 1986, after a bequest by the Municipality, it was restored as a theatre and has operated as such ever since. It is a typical example of 1950 architecture with significant historical value and it was one of the city’s first cinemas. It is the only one that has maintained its character and is still operating.

The Pattichion Municipal Theatre is the largest indoor theatre in the Limassol district with a capacity for 740 spectators. The restoration project will be completed in 2012 at an estimated total cost of €8 million. The project is funded by P a g e | 21

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“Sustainable Development and Competitiveness” programme of the European Regional

Development Fund of 2007-2013.

For conferences and other events there are excellent spaces in all the hotels in the city and the district.

Limassol also has some unique outdoor spaces for gatherings and events such as the Enaerios car park in the city centre, large areas on the promenade, at the old port which is currently being remodelled, at Limassol Port, and Administration Office Square and Heroes Square in the historical centre of the city.

Places of Culture There exists a large number of cultural infrastructures, in some instances very important from the point of view of buildings, equipment and items on display.

The aim is to create the proper conditions for increased visitor potential and use.

Exploiting cultural infrastructures to create conditions for increased visitor potential and use

Sport, bodies and official institutions For sports and other events in Limassol there is the old city stadium which has been transformed into a multi-purpose athletics and sports arena, the new closed Spyros Kyprianou Palais des Sports

The Public Library of Limassol P a g e | 22

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with the largest and most impressive multi-purpose indoor arena in Cyprus which holds more than 6,250 spectators and has space for at least 42 wheelchairs. The Tsirion Stadium, which was inaugurated in 1975 and has a capacity of 13,152, is the biggest in Limassol and the second biggest in Cyprus. It is used mainly for football but also for other sports events and concerts.

Finally, catering for the same needs, there are many areas on the beach that are successfully used for sports and other events.

Exploiting development projects that are nearing completion, especially those aimed at reviving the city centre: A considerable number of development projects, mainly concerned with remodeling and transforming the city centre, are under way with a total budget of €615 million and funding from the regular and development budgets of Limassol Exploiting major development projects Municipality, European Union Structural Funds, funding planned for completion before 2017, focusing from public organizations and private investment and via on projects in the historic centre of Limassol the B.O.T. method.

The most important of these are:                        

Renovation of the Pattichion Municipal Theatre Fitidio Athletic Center Cultural Center “Panos Solomonides” Municipal Historic Archive and Museum building Renovation of Cyprus Theatrical Museum Renovation and extension of Bi-community Multivalent Center Cultural center in Ankara street Full restoration and extension of the Municipal Library City center development Limassol Marina Regeneration of the old Limassol port “Garyllis” linear park Regeneration of Enaerios sea front Coastal Multipurpose Park Block of flats for pour families Road construction and renovation Reconstruction of all pavements in the city Renovation of squares, parks, green areas Underground and other parking spaces Futsal stadium and park in Zakaki Launching ramp for small boats Football stadium in Agiou Antoniou district Landscaping of Agias Filas crossing Bridge connecting the “Fitidio” Athletic Center with the beach P a g e | 23

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 

Large road construction Passenger station in new port

Limassol Municipality’s significant development policy, especially regarding the remodeling and transformation of the city centre, needs to be exploited and harmonized with the cultural Strategy of the ECOC Programme with the objective of providing real benefits to citizens and to the city in general.

Redevelopment project of the historic city center - around the medieval castle

Exploitation and upgrading of existing annual events: In the preparation of the programme, existing annual events are being taken into account with a broad range of themes that reflect the basic issues in which Use and update annual events related Limassol can be involved and which it can create, bearing in to local tradition and culture mind the interest of the local community and providing at the same time a basis for collaborations with cultural organizations and associations and artists from abroad.

Exploitation of local specialist themes – wine An important element directly linking the city‟s history with the broader area is the cultivation of the vine and the production of wine. The Limassol district consists of many so-called wine villages and the bestSelect local specialist themes for tourism promotion - wine routes known of all Cyprus wines is the sweet Commandaria which is directly linked to the Knights of St. John, the Knights Templar, and Richard the Lionheart who conquered the island on his way to the Holy Land during the Third Crusade. The area where Commandaria is produced is in the Limassol district, on the southern slopes of the Troodos mountain range. All stages of production, except ageing, take place in the traditional area which includes 14 villages.

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To a great extent, Limassol owes its development to commercial activities, chiefly the wine and carob trade. Travelers at the end of the 16th century and the beginning o the 17th century refer to the good, strong and inexpensive wine found in Limassol.

Today, around fifty small and large wineries operate across the Limassol district, scattered among the villages and areas that have not only vineyards but a tradition in producing and trading in wine and other vine products.

Exploiting the international reputation of Limassol personalities: Below are some of the best-known personalities who were born or lived in Limassol.   

 



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Michael Cacoyannis (1922-2011) Theatre and film director with many international successes to his name.

Stella Soulioti The first woman lawyer, government minister and Attorney-General of Cyprus.

Nicos Zamboglou Doctor. Professor of Oncology and Head of the University Clinic in Frankfurt. Chairman of the German Society of Radiooncology. Associate Member of Academy of Athens.

Vasilis Michaelides (1849-1917) The national poet of Cyprus lived in Limassol where he wrote his great poetic oeuvre.

Emilios Hourmouzios (1904-1973) Journalist, writer and intellectual, he was one of the first to write in support of a united Europe. He founded the Epidaurus and Athens Festivals and was Director of the National Theatre of Greece.

Ioannis Frangoudes (1863-1916) Cyprus‟s first and only Olympic Gold Medal winner (at the first Olympic Games of the modern era in Athens in 1896).

Polyxeni Loizias (1855-1942) Important female personality of Limassol during the period of British rule, a multifaceted personality with educational, intellectual, writer, feminist activity.

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Exploiting the Limassolians’ dynamism, interest and temperament: The people of Limassol have a long-established reputation or being fun-loving and creative, with an artistic flair. A typical example is the large number – for the size o the population – of artistic groups, serenaders, dance groups and schools and, generally speaking, of cultural associations and organisations in which people of all ages participate.

The people of Limassol take an active part in annual events such as Carnival, the Flower Festival, Cataclysmos (50 days after Easter) and others and in the large number of events organised by local cultural associations.

Summer events at the ancient Curium Theatre

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6. Vision Limassol’s Vision involves building the future based on its past achievements, its history and traditional values, and making the most of its significant role in linking Europe and the Mediterranean and, with Culture as a Compass, by way of balanced cultural, economic and social development, to maximize the prosperity and quality of life of its people.

The award of the title European Capital of Culture will provide the city and the surrounding area with an opportunity and a challenge to display and present its long history and culture, its wealth, its diversity and its shared characteristics with other European cultures, to promote cultural diversity and multicultural dialogue.

Limassol will continue to be an oasis at the same crossroads where today‟s European and other travellers meet to observe and study with interest the historical and cultural traces and influences left behind by all the previous visitors, and to participate in local events linking history with the future and Europe with the Mediterranean.

From the depths of the centuries, all the visitors/conquerors who passed through Cyprus and Limassol have left their traces and their influence on buildings and infrastructures, on the names of places and local products and have shaped the island‟s history, yet without altering the language, religion, nationality and the folk tradition and culture of the Cypriot people.

Past traces and influences left by the peoples of Europe and the Mediterranean on Limassol and the broader area form the link between their modern descendents and today‟s city and, via the “Limassol 2017” Programme of activities, they will be a major attraction to encourage people to visit the city and to enjoy educational, emotional and social interaction with the place and its local culture, simultaneously influencing and being influenced.

The single word that has been chosen to reflect the vision of Limassol is “Pyxis”, the name of a small constellation and the Latin name for a mariner‟s compass with its connotations of Direction, Progress, Search and Destination and its reference to the slogan “With Culture as a Compass” that will accompany the city‟s journey into the New Era. “Pyxis” is linked to Limassol as a coastal city, its history and present-day reality with a port, “rota of winds”, cargo and passenger ships, sailing, piracy, shipyards, technology, history, nautical/Portolan/island/navigational charts…, all of which are a rich topic for separate events and activities on the sidelines of the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Limassol‟s commitment to direction, progress and search “with culture as a compass” will not be restricted to 2017 alone but will stand for the years to come.

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The city and its partners are convinced that culture is a basic element of European and international relations and that investment in culture acts as a catalyst for the consolidation of a European identity, for viable development and peace.

For further progress, the compass points to the broad participation of residents and visitors, to the promotion of creativity, to a focus on people-oriented development and the promotion of intercultural dialogue.

Participation At all stages of the process, the interactive participation of citizens, visitors, cultural associations, artists and the private sector is important.

Emphasis will be placed on the participation of the whole of the city‟s population, with special care and attention given to handling multicultural, multi-ethnic, multilingual, multi-religious and social integration issues.

The entire artistic resources of the city and the district will be encouraged to participate, giving everyone a chance to become active with new ideas and originality, to collaborate among themselves and to create new partnerships in Cyprus and in other EU countries.

The main «population» target group is young people who will continue the ECOC legacy in the coming years.

The private sector and, in particular, international companies based in Limassol, has always supported and promoted the city‟s programmes. The private sector, companies and organizations, will be encouraged to participate dynamically in this major event by providing services and financial support.

The people of Limassol have long had a reputation for being fun-loving and creative with an artistic flair. They participate actively in annual events such as the carnival, the wine festival, the flower festival (Anthestiria), Kataklysmos and others, as well as in a large number of events organized by local cultural associations.

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Creativity Limassol has a noteworthy cultural life which provides an initial basis for upgrading and improvement through the “Limassol 2017” programme and through the promotion of a creative and supportive environment for artists and cultural organisations.

Stimulating the interest of people in new forms of artistic expression will lead to the creation of a new audience and greater participation in cultural issues, projects and events.

The result will be a creative environment, dedicated to multicultural expression and support for initiatives from cultural organisations and independent artists from Europe and the Mediterranean.

Intercultural Dialogue The present-day city of Limassol has a composite social and cultural environment that has been created over time and comprises a mosaic of nationalities coexisting peacefully with the Greek Cypriots.

The promotion and spread of intercultural dialogue will act as catalysts in the “Limassol 2017” Programme, given that culture is a bridge of dialogue between the various groups that coexist in the city and broader area.

In this context, Limassol participates in the European Intercultural Cities network. The ongoing project, coordinated by the Council of Europe, aims at helping cities formulate the correct policies to ensure better integration of migrants and minorities.

People-oriented Development The role of the cultural dimension in the creation and development of infrastructure projects with the planning of projects for cultural and other infrastructures regarding urban regeneration with the aim of achieving compliance with the demands of the cultural programme (place, accessibility, flexibility, multicultural perspective).

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7. Strategic Objective The city of Limassol looks forward to exploiting the major opportunities afforded by the institution of the European Capital of Culture which is acknowledged to be one of the most successful institutions in the European Union. Guided by the Strategy that is being drawn up for the period 2013-2017 and which will be extended beyond the year of the event by taking advantage of the legacy of the ECOC title, Limassol expects to both gain and to create cultural, social and financial benefits. It will be aiming at the same time to achieve viable, „smart‟ and sustainable development, without racial, national or other exclusions, through the promotion of cooperation with the countries of Europe and the broader Mediterranean region.

The process starts with the preparation of the city‟s candidacy; it moves on to planning the implementation of the event which starts with the awarding of the title and ends with an integrated programme of events and activities for 2017.

The Strategy takes changes to local and regional development into account, where urban policy is not based only on the creation of “hard” infrastructures but on the promotion of creativity and innovation through “soft” infrastructures, thereby making the most of the people, the environmental and cultural resources of the city and the broader area.

The “Limassol 2017” cultural Programme combines a series of processes, projects, events and activities for 2017. The sum of the events and activities of the “Limassol 2017” Programme represents the implementation of the Cultural Strategy according to a specific timetable. The Cultural Strategy and the process will remain and will be implemented through time, via a cycle of reviews and modifications based on experience, continuous evaluation and change, according to the circumstances and the environment.

The Strategic Objective is the reinforcement of cultural policies and linking them with the city’s social, economic and environmental policies through the design, preparation, implementation and monitoring of a noteworthy cultural Programme for 2017 under the slogan “Metamorphosis”.

The slogan “Metamorphosis” summarizes the “Limassol 2017” Programme and explains the development and the change to the city, looking forward to a “creative city”. This will be achieved through the reinforcement of Culture in the political development of the city and with the harmonious concurrence of cultural and development strategies.

“Metamorphosis” is the city‟s overall objective and vision which is identified with the process of becoming the European Capital of Culture. Limassol lives alongside its history but, at the same time, it is being transformed into a modern city, a city of the future and a significant point of culture in Mediterranean Europe. The aim, vision and ideology of the city in the 21st century states that through culture and contact, creativity and the joint European production of modern thought and ideas, Limassol will achieve its Metamorphosis which will result in a better life for its citizens and will challenge other European cities to move in the same direction.

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By 2017, Limassol will have been transformed since 2013 into the living, cultural core of Southern Europe, ready to present its vision and its thematic unities to the whole of Europe and the Mediterranean, while after 2017 the citizens of – and visitors to – Limassol will live with the great legacy of this entire four-year process.

Metamorphosis in the way that citizens look at their city, the limits of thought and the prospects for development and modern joint European creativity.

Metamorphosis through infrastructure and urban character projects, in remodelling and improving the city‟s historical and modern buildings and squares and upgrading cultural assets and equipment necessary for the creation and development of a cultural dimension.

The unique prospects being given to the city and the area are the incentive for the mobilisation of the whole mechanism by the city and its citizens, for partnerships and networking on a local and European level, for cultural organisations and associations as well as sponsors and supporters of the programme.

Based on the vision and strategic objective, the following targets have been set, to be achieved through the implementation of the cultural activities, events and initiatives planned for the “Limassol 2017” event.

Target 1

Confirmation and promotion of the cultural/multicultural image of Limassol

Target 2

Improvements to cultural infrastructures and services to encourage creativity

Target 3

Strengthening of Limassol as regional, economic and business center

Target 4

Long-term cultural, social and economic benefits for future generations

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8.

Thematic Structure of “Limassol 2017”

8.1

Guidelines for the Selection of Activities

The basic structure of the “Limassol 2017” Programme covers the whole of 2017 and, to this end, the following elements will be taken into account: (1)

The event should span the entire period equally to ensure that there are no „empty‟ times, that interest remains constant, and that visitors to the island have a chance to participate and to select events both thematically and chronologically.

(2)

The tourist season needs to be extended since almost all the major events in the country are scheduled for the summer.

(3)

The programme is not simply a numbered list of events. It reflects the local culture and relations with the broader area of Europe and the Mediterranean. Timewise, the distribution of the various themes is expected to coincide with existing local annual events and traditions and to fit in with the residents‟ existing predisposition for such events and themes.

(4)

Scheduled annual events or existing international conferences and other time-related aspects are taken into consideration in such a way that scheduling harmoniously complements previous annual planning. At the same time, an opportunity arises to implement a long-term cultural programme with modifications as required.

(5)

The themes reflect those which Limassol is in a position to deal with creatively, taking into account the interest of the local community and the capabilities of local cultural associations and organisations.

(6)

A basis with interesting topics is provided for collaborations with cultural bodies, organisations and artists from Cyprus and abroad.

The guidelines for selecting the events and activities of the “Limassol 2017” Programme may be summarized as follows: a)

Promoting dialogue and cooperation between Limassol and other European countries and the neighbouring countries of the Mediterranean basin, through joint cultural events, activities, research and multicultural exchanges.

b)

Encouraging and promoting contacts among citizens, spreading knowledge of the cultures of Europe, transferring know-how and dealing with mutual cultural issues.

c)

Supporting exchange and artistic creation and the movement of artists and artistic groups through the holding of joint events.

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d)

Working and insisting on the avoidance of discrimination on the basis of race, sex, nationality, language or religion and succeeding in overcoming prejudice, discrimination and other obstacles in a truly multi-ethnic, multicultural, multi-religious and multilingual society.

8.2

Themes of the Programme

The sea has created Limassol in thousands of years

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THE SEA THE SEA is the first main theme of the 2017 events.

Every wave reaching the shore and the city‟s port brought with it a ship, a new written language, a suffering person, a piece of news, a new suggestion, a new idea, a previously unheard sound, scents and tastes, music and spectacles belonging to other cultures. Today they are all still there, some visible and others hidden which we shall reveal. They all make up the city and its hidden dynamic.

As the sea embraces Limassol, so does Limassol embrace people, ideas and cultures…

The role played by the sea in the development and shaping of the face of Limassol and in the cosmopolitan character of the residents of the city, is especially significant.

The port and the sea have always been a large window on the world, through which Limassol received countless visits and, of course, the positive influences of foreign cultures. At the same time, the sea was the only way out for the residents of the city towards the broader Mediterranean region.

The sea has been sung about throughout the seafaring world. It was and still is an intensely erotic element of expression in many cultures.

This theme will also include unique exhibitions of all types of seaborne vessels, from Limassol and other Mediterranean cities, as well as a complete series of events with music, dance, visual arts, athletic events and more on the premises of Limassol old port and all along the coastal road.

The large dock in the old port of Limassol P a g e | 34

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ON THE TRAIL OF HISTORY Limassol and the surrounding district have a long and great history which dates back to antiquity.

Archaeological sites surround the city, including the Agora at Ancient Amathus, the Ancient Curium amphitheatre, the Temple of Apollo and others. Limassol had a notable presence during the Middle Ages, evidence of which still exists in the shape of the mediaeval castles of Limassol and Kolossi.

Today the city is being modernized and it wishes to be part of the future of Europe, armed with scientific knowledge, artistic creativity and the high quality of its citizens‟ daily lives.

This theme will be expressed in many ways throughout the whole year, since Limassol‟s archaeology and history, like its mediaeval and Byzantine eras in particular, are extremely rich in monuments and archaeological finds.

Interesting art and other themed exhibitions of historical content, significant examples of culture from antiquity and from the Middle Ages to the present day, will be the subject of events and performances from all over Europe.

The medieval castle in the city centre

Ancient drama, mediaeval music and theatre, contemporary music and dance performances will link the great, endless traces of Limassol‟s history which has always been linked to the parallel histories of the Mediterranean, Europe and the Middle East.

ART & POPULAR CULTURE Multiculturalism As European Capital of Culture, Limassol will lend creative space and particular importance to the multicultural character of the broader area which the city and port have experienced through the passage of time and which they continue to experience today.

Various national cultures and traditional arts have passed through and left their influences on the traditional culture of the city, on art, The Temple of Apollo P a g e | 35

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music and dance, architecture, gastronomy and everyday relations among citizens.

In addition to the proposals that will be submitted and the multiplicity of events, a dominant place regarding this theme will be given to the creation of a Mediterranean Folk Instrument Orchestra featuring traditional instruments from European and non-European countries of the Mediterranean, which will link via sound and colour the cultures of the nations of the great Mediterranean basin (a detailed analysis of the idea is included elsewhere).

The reclaiming area, particularly attractive place for people of all ethnicities

INDUSTRY AND ART (Technology and the Future) Limassol has already begun to adapt to this new global trend. Traditional and historical industrial buildings are being refurbished and transformed into cultural spaces.

The modern industrial era has given a considerable number of examples of artistic creativity.

Limassol is the city which first supported industry in the whole of Cyprus. The reasons are certainly connected to the port and the direct access from the city to the hinterland and to the production of carob and wine.

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Limassol was and remains an important industrial power on the island and it has four large industrial areas. One of these could be turned into a very attractive factory modern art area to host contemporary art events such as graffiti, festivals featuring percussion groups, rock concerts on the street, etc.

An important place in the industrial era belongs, of course, to the Internet revolution and above all to the way in which information and even examples of artistic creativity are transmitted today. One example of what we shall include in the technology centre in this industrial area is an Internet Centre in which seminars can be held on the distribution of art online and on subjects concerning the use of technology and electronics in art (music, cinema, graphic arts).

The use of metal, a manufactured material, gives a modern form through an overview to the ancient Greek geometric structure surging everywhere for rhythm and harmony.

A project by George Tsaras in the sculpture park in the reclaiming area of Limassol.

The Gates of George Tsaras are a tribute to the historical and cultural link between twinned cities of Thessaloniki and Limassol. A symbol of communication, with the horizon of the sea as a backdrop, marking the entrance into a new era of creative coexistence of people, communities and cities.

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WINE (Humour and satire) Wine production is perhaps the most ancient organised agricultural occupation of the residents of the broader district of Limassol and it was once the main element of contact between the city and its port and the rest of the known world. A whole system of social events, interaction and behaviour grew up around the production of wine.

Through their celebrations around the table, with wine a focal point, people learned to sing, dance, laugh and joke.

Laughter and satire are a form of expression that has always been closely linked to Limassol. The cosmopolitan character of the residents and their lively communications with the outside world, wine production and their popular major festivals (wine, carnival) have moulded Limassol into a city which is open to satire, comedy and laughter.

Limassol is perhaps the liveliest city on the island and its residents are famed for their directness and warmheartedness. It was in Limassol that the first satirical magazines and newspapers were published.

Laughter and satire are, at the same time, important means of expression in world art. Through satire, people had the chance to question authority, to expose scandals, to be ironic and critical of war, corruption and conservative thinking from ancient times to the present day.

Mime, shadow theatre, black theatre, and political cartoons from all over Europe will be a Mediterranean innovation and will add an intensely subversive element to the 2017 events.

CULTURE AND COMMUNICATION Apart from the many staged performances which will enrich the ECOC Programme, Limassol would no be the same without the living communication and interaction of its citizens through art.

Carnival is a great celebration of this type, especially the carnival dances which attract young people. There will be small groups of musicians on the streets and in the various squares, painters and folk artists will be all over the city and the district in places frequented by the people of Limassol day and night. A typical example of such communication is the summer open-air cinema which will be a basic element in the events around this theme.

The events will have a „street‟ character and will take place in various squares in the city of Limassol and in the other coastal Municipalities that make up Greater Limassol. A particular effort will be made by the organisers to present these spectacles in the broader Limassol district as well, especially during the summer months, so that they can be transformed into large street festivals with the participation of visitors from other countries.

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Regarding this theme, we are certain that the proposals which will be the subject of a public debate are open to street theatre, street performers, “mpouloukia” (theatre crowds), painters and artists from the whole of Europe.

In this thematic module the opportunity will be offered to young people, in cooperation with the Cyprus Technical University and other universities in the city, to manage integrated actions from the design, to planning, implementation and monitoring, to demonstrate their creative talents in innovative and creative ways of electronic communication and interconnection through the internet and social networks.

8.3

Cuba aroma to the European Festival of Limassol

Description of Thematic Events and Activities

The following schedule contains a provisional description of the main events that are being planned for the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

It should be noted that the main events and projects planned for the year 2017 may be preceded during the years before 2017 by actions such as surveys, exchanges and other preparatory activities.

This schedule has been drawn up for the purpose of timely preparation and it is being used as a basis for negotiations which have begun and which are due to be completed at the stage of selecting all partners and associates.

It is expected that the final list will contain additions based on suggestions and proposals from all partners and associates and on the selection process described below.

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Provisional Schedule of Events It should be clarified that the content of the schedule will be subject to change during continuous negotiations with all partners and associates and it is expected to undergo modifications and changes until all negotiations are over at the selection stage.

THE SEA «Alexandria – Limassol – Marseilles» Exhibition of historical documents, manuscripts, maps, calendars of travelers from museums and private collections to show the relationship of cities, great historical and commercial relationship between the three cities - ports of the region and their contribution to the development of trade and trade in the Mediterranean Sea. «Seaborne History» Exhibition of seaborne vessels from the Limassol boatyard and exhibits from other Mediterranean cities. The boats that lie abandoned in the Limassol boatyard and elsewhere will be gathered together and repaired. Boatyards in other Mediterranean cities will be scoured for boats and related objects. The exhibition will be housed in a huge warehouse provided for the purpose by the Cyprus Ports Authority.

“Lambousa” boat which is maintained by the Municipality of Limassol

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«Words of the Sea» – literature, poetry.

Poetry and literary evenings on the theme of the sea, with presentations of and readings from classical and contemporary poets.

ON THE TRAIL OF HISTORY

«Mediaeval Music Festival» During the Middle Ages, contacts and mutual influences were widespread across a whole range of culture. Throughout Europe and in Cyprus there are important examples of writing in both tradition and in all kinds of musical culture. A Mediaeval Music Festival will reveal all the musical wealth of Europe. Two wonderful venues will be used for this purpose: the Castle in the centre of the old city of Limassol and the Castle in an enchanting location in the village of Kolossi.

«THEATRE» – performances of classic works at archaeological sites.

«Horatio Kitchener’s Limassol» This is a three-dimensional, virtual representation of the centre of Limassol with all the buildings and open spaces as depicted on the map of 1881 with special references covering all areas. It is a new way of depicting and recording the city.

Research will cover and compare similar cities in the Mediterranean during the same period and will record the significance of the architecture, influences from Greece and other European cities, while at the same time identifying how European trends appeared in the city‟s urban architecture. It will also provide an opportunity for the holding of conferences and symposia with other Mediterranean cities on issues related to tourism development, the preservation and maintenance of traditional settlements and how they contribute to our common European identity.

«Architectural Symposium» In conjunction with the corresponding Cultural Capital in Denmark, its main themes will be the history and development of architecture in the cities

ART AND POPULAR CULTURE «Grand Orchestra of Traditional Mediterranean Music» A very ambitious project which we aim to establish through the European Union so that this ensemble becomes a permanent musical meeting of Mediterranean artists. The orchestra will start to be formed from 2014 so as to be officially presented in 2017.

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«Ethnic Music Festival» Featuring groups from various countries, it has been held for many years by the Rialto organization in one of the city‟s most central squares. Our intention is for the Festival to attract groups with an international reputation and for it to be extended in duration and expanded to other venues so that thousands of local people and visitors have a chance to attend the performances.

«Children’s Traditional Dance Festival» It has been organised for the last 8 years by the Limassol Folklore Association and features children‟s groups from various countries. It is our intention over the five-year Culutral Capital of Europe preparation period to invite groups from all 27 EU member states so that the people of Limassol can get to know European folk culture through their talented children.

«Euro-Mediterranean Traditional Dance Festival» Organised by the city‟s Municpality for the past 7 years, it features groups from European and Mediterranean countries.

«The Culture of the Nationalities of Limassol» Special tributes and events from the various national groups living in Limassol.

«Traditional Theatre» Shadow theatre, street theatre and other types of outdoor theatre in squares and on the streets.

The Euro- Mediterranean Festival, an annual event in Limassol

«The Musical Profile of Europe» Each month will be devoted to a particular type of music: FADO, FLAMENCO, REBETIKO, NEAPOLITAN, FRENCH, BALKAN BRASS, CELTIC – IRISH, SCANDINAVIAN, etc.

INDUSTRY AND ART «Reshaping the Industrial Area» Transforming it into a contemporary Art city α) Reshaping and converting buildings (Graffiti)

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b) Transforming old buses into works of art and locating them in the industrial area. c) Video wall on large industrial buildings d) Use of open spaces and their transformation into venues for mass gatherings «Percussion Festival» From all over Europe, percussion groups and industrial objects as percussion instruments.

«ROCK FESTIVAL» «PUBLICATION» of a book on the history and restoration of industrial buildings.

«INTERNET CENTRE» – as described in the initial analysis of the theme.

«FILM FESTIVAL» (a) European cinema, (b) Short f ilms, (c) Documentaries

WINE «From Aristophanes to Dario Fo» An interesting theatre theme with performances from all over Europe and the establishment of a Festival of Comedy at Ancient Curium in 2017.

«Transformation of the Wine Festival» With groups from all over Europe in the Festival.

«Transformation of the Carnival» With the participation of groups from the carnival cities of Europe (Venice, Patras, Limassol, etc.) The Limassol Carnival is a major popular festival which takes place thanks to the creativity and mass participation of its citizens.

«EXHIBITION OF MASKS» from all over Europe.

«Serenaders Festival» Male voice choirs from countries with a similar tradition: Italy, Spain, Portugual, Greece, Cyprus, France.

«A Special Publication» with historical and musical material related to the serenade.

«Political Cartoons» An exhibition of the work of the most important European cartoonists.

«Festival of Humour and Satire» – To be introduced from 2014.

«Island of Wines» – Exhibition of the 5,000-year history of wine in Cyprus.

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«Gastronomy & Wine» – Presenting European and Mediterranean cuisine.

CULTURE AND COMMUNICATION «Open-air Cinema» This type of cinema was especially popular in Mediterranean countries in decades gone by.

We want to bring it back to squares in the city and outlying villages. Open-air cinema screenings were a type of social interaction, through contact with an artistic genre.

«Music Groups» featuring young musicians performing in the city streets and squares.

«Young Artists» create and exhibit in outdoor venues.

«Christmas in Limassol» A major religious tradition throughout Europe. An international meeting of choirs with traditional carols and Christmas songs from all over Europe in the streets and squares of Limassol.

«Dance Platform» – Contemporary dance groups.

«Festival of Modern Dance» «The Great Ballets» A three-day institution with the participation of major dance groups from all over Europe.

«Digital dialogue» and «Electronic accessibility of Limassol», activities of young people.

Musical performance by "Diastasis" cultural association involving the cultural group of "Dionysus".

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Limassol organizes the biggest annual events in Cyprus, events which attract every year many visitors from all over the island and from overseas.

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8.4

Example of a Project with a European and Global Dimension

Name of Project: MedVision Subject: The formation a Grand Orchestra of Traditional Mediterranean Music and the setting up of a EuroMediterranean Cultural Network.

The basic idea of the project is to present the traditional music of the Mediterranean in an innovative manner, enriched by new sound and vision technology, as well as the sounds of the traditional instruments. To realize the project, the EuroMediterranean Cultural Network of cultural organisations from the participating countries is being set up to manage the first Grand Orchestra of Traditional Mediterranean Music featuring musicians selected from the participating countries.

In parallel with the recruitment process for the orchestra, research is being carried out to record and bring together all the traditional instruments of the Mediterranean in deluxe volume containing historical, musical and photographic material. At the same time, a study will identify all the ancient cultural venues and theatres which are capable of hosting performances today, including historical references, photographic material and other useful information which will assist in the hosting of performances (organisations responsible for management, number of seats available, common areas, etc.) These will be the orchestra‟s first choice venues for its concerts, thus making the most of the city‟s historical and archaeological sites and showing them to their best advantage during every performance.

The main objective of the project is the creation of a platform in which young, up-and-coming artists will participate together with selected professionals experienced in this type of music from the countries of the Mediterranean (Europe, the Middle East and North Africa). The ultimate aim is the exchange and movement of ideas and experiences through joint cultural activities and events, thus encouraging the movement of artists and the transfer of know-how and presenting the traditional music of the Mediterranean in an innovative manner, enriched by modern sound and vision technology so as to reach the public in a new, attractive and more effective way and thus to broaden the audience for this type of music, especially among today‟s young people whose listening habits are restricted almost exclusively to modern sounds. Once members of the Grand Orchestra of Traditional Mediterranean Music have been appointed and its composition is complete, the orchestra will be presented in a grand premiere performance in Limassol as part of the “Limassol 2017” events.

The EuroMediterranean Cultural Network will undertake the continued promotion of the orchestra‟s activities through performances in other countries of Europe, the Mediterranean and elsewhere, thus securing its long-term viability.

The main content of the project may be summarized thus: (a) Creation of the EuroMediterranean Cultural Network (b) Finding partners. All partners become members of the network.

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(c) (d)

(e) (f)

(g)

(h) (i) (j) (k) (l)

Research and presentation of the book/catalogue on traditional instruments of the Mediterranean (historical elements, correlating, photographs, musical explanation) Research and presentation of the book/catalogue on ancient cultural venues and theatres which are capable of hosting performances today (historical references, photographic material, organisations responsible for management, capacity, size of stage, common areas, etc.)

Distribution of books/catalogues Recruitment process for members of the orchestra. It will take place in each member state in competitions, all based on the same specifications and assessment criteria and the need to form a large orchestra which is expected to consist of 60-80 musicians.

The selection process for members of the orchestra will be filmed with the aim of making a short film/DVD showing the highlights of the orchestraâ€&#x;s formation and its first performance.

Once the orchestra has been formed, the repertoire will be prepared and rehearsals will start for the first performance.

Holding of the premiere performance of the Grand Orchestra of Traditional Mediterranean Music under the MedVision banner in Limassol.

At all stages there will be meetings of the members of the EuroMediterranean Cultural Network concerning the organization and management of the network.

Promotion and Publicity Strategy.

Scheduling of performances by the Orchestra all over Cyprus and in other countries.

Target Profile: Young, up-and-coming artists irrespective of race, nationality, language, religion, etc. New audience of all ages, races, nationalities, etc.

Expected Results: - Networking of cultural associations and organizations and planning of joint cultural activities.

- Improved ability to manage the partnering teams through collaboration, exchange of ideas and transfer of know-how.

- Promotion of cross-border cultural cooperation through joint ownership, exchanges and mutual understanding through art.

- Making the public more aware of and open to traditional music.

- Opportunities for future cooperation and other partnerships.

- Opportunities for joint artistic creation and improved mutual artistic influence.

- Encouragement of cross-border movement by young artists and creativity.

- Creation of a new audience and the spread of knowledge about cultures.

The duration of the project from the beginning to the scheduled first performance by the Grand Orchestra of Traditional Mediterranean Music in August 2017, the month dedicated to tradition, is expected to be 3 years with the project due to start in January 2014.

The key participants in the project are: The Project Coordinator, the Artistic Director/Conductor and selected professional artists who, through their participation from the preliminary stages, will

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provide the required weight and significance to the orchestra and will encourage the participation of young, up-and-coming artists.

For scheduling purposes regarding the participation of a professional artist, the project has been presented to the internationally-renowned Greek singer George Dalaras, an honorary citizen of Limassol active in Cyprus for many years. He has shown serious interest in the proposal and in his own participation and we expect to finalise an agreement on his collaboration.

Project Manager will be the “Limassol 2017” organization while partners can be Municipalities, Communities, Cultural Associations and artists from the participating countries.

The premiere performance is scheduled to take place at the Ancient Curium amphitheatre or another archaeological site in the broader Limassol district.

The famous Greek singer George Dalaras at this year's big open air concert in the mine Skouriotissa.

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9.

Expected Results, Evaluation and Impact

The city of Limassol is bidding for the title of European Capital of Culture and looks forward to obtaining both medium- and long-term benefits, which are analyzed as a result of the strategic objectives mentioned above:.

Target 1

Confirmation and promotion of the cultural/multicultural image of Limassol Expected results: • • • • •

Target 2

Better quality of life for citizens, social solidarity and inclusion.

Upgrading and promotion of the city‟s image both internationally and locally, thereby encouraging creativity and new ideas in its cultural life.

Providing an opportunity to promote the city‟s history and culture.

Presenting and promoting cultural heritage through cultural events and activities, with the broad participation of citizens, visitors, sensitive social groups of the population and young people in particular.

Focusing through a multicultural lens on the provision of equal opportunities to all citizens, the integration of migrants into the social fabric and the acceptance of difference as a source of new ideological and artistic fermentation.

Improvements to cultural infrastructures and services to encourage creativity Expected results: • • • •

Target 3

The cultural and creative sectors will be given an opportunity to develop.

Support for cultural organisations and artists, promotion of corporate relations on a European level of artistic creation and emphasising the European identity.

Life will be breathed into the new look that is being brought about through the development works by the addition of the cultural dimension.

A creative and supportive environment will be promoted for artists and cultural organisations.

Strengthening of Limassol as regional, economic and business center Expected results: • • •

With the support and financial reinforcement of culture and the positive effects on the economy and society.

Encouraging dialogue among artists, scientists, entrepreneurs and policy makers, on culture as a stimulus for prosperity.

Promotion of “sustainable cultural and creative tourism”, offering a total experience based on knowledge and interactivity, with the creation of a “myth” P a g e | 49

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and narrative about the place, its traditions, its cultural heritage and, in general, local culture. With the interactive participation of visitors to local events through "Limassol 2017» Programme, visitors will become "ambassadors" of the European Cultural Capital their countries Target 4

Long-term cultural, social and economic benefits for future generations Expected results: • • • •

Reviving the European identity by encouraging the exploitation of existing partnerships and the creation of new ones.

Improving access to education and knowledge through exchanges, transfer of know-how and training programmes in the cultural sector.

Creating better and more humane conditions and quality of life for every citizen through a properly structured and natural environment.

Upgrading and exploiting local culture with the aim of attracting visitors and tourism.

The expected success and the empirical results of the “Limassol 2017” Programme can become, in parallel with the experiences and results of all the European cities to have been awarded the title since 1985 to the present day, and example and an incentive to Municipal and Village Authorities in Cyprus to make Culture one of their highest priorities and a compass for their planning and policy.

For the evaluation of the event and the interpretation of the results, a team of experts will be set up in collaboration with the Cyprus University of Technology which is based in Limassol and will lead the evaluation.

The framework οf the investigation will focus on the cultural, social and economic legacy and will include the following:     

Organisation, management and leadership Cultural vigilance, overall image and impressions Economy and tourism Cultural access and participation Long-term effects, sustainability of these effects

The analysis will give the following:    

Standard of management and leadership Degree of implementation of the programme based on the timetable and budget Financial Management Optimisation of quality at all levels P a g e | 50

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       

Degree of citizens‟ involvement Degree of exploitation and involvement of partners on a European level Degree of attendance of the events by locals and foreigners Effectiveness of the communication strategy Degree of promotion of the European Union Degree obtained of the expected cultural, social and economic benefit Degree of volunteer involvement Degree of sponsor and supporter involvement

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10. Procedure for drawing up the “Limassol 2017” Programme The procedure for drawing up the structure of the “Limassol 2017” Programme has been divided into the following stages: (a)

Research Stage

At the research stage, a study was made of the ECOC concept and an analysis carried out of the elements that contribute to the success from previous winning bids through evaluations and reports (Palmer report) with the aim of ensuring that we are correctly oriented and to bring about some creative thinking.

In summarized form, the best practices revealed by the investigation were: (b)

Focus on quality and the characteristics of the projects.

Combination of high artistic demands and an enthusiastic public response.

Ambitious and innovative European projects with strong ramifications.

Careful selection of partners/associates on a European scale.

Promotion of the special characteristics of the city and extension to other cultures using local culture as a springboard.

The programme should look to the future with an innovative character without ignoring the city‟s history and tradition.

The broadest possible, best-balanced participation by local and foreign artists.

Strategy Stage

The strategy stage includes the collection of data about the city and the district and the evaluation process, identifying the advantages, prospects, disadvantages and parameters of success as described in detail in the paragraph “Evaluation of Limassol and the District”.

Through the analysis and processing of the evaluation data, it is possible to determine the orientation in terms of activities and projects: (c)

which promote and exploit the advantages of the city and the broader region, which exploit the prospects and potential of the city and the broader region, which minimize the effects of any disadvantages, which take the parameters of success into account.

Negotiation Stage

The negotiation stage is already in place and until the final drawing up of the “Limassol 2017” Programme which is expected to be completed during the Selection Stage (January 2012-September 2012), it will be implemented bottom-up.

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Completed or Scheduled Negotiations: (1)

Negotiations with Municipalities and communities in the area of the event

The city of Limassol, as metropolis of the area and the second largest city in Cyprus, has direct links with the broader area and the district.

Planning of cooperation with the City Halls and Municipal Councils in the area includes the following: -

Briefing on the ECOC concept and the basic principles underlying Limassol‟s candidacy.

-

Signing of an Agreement on support and cooperation with the city of Limassol in the framework of its ECOC title bid. Details of the cooperation will be defined at the Selection stage.

-

Submission of proposals and suggestions by all Municipalities for cultural events, activities and projects for 2017.

Proposals for joint cultural activities and projects can be scheduled for the years preceding 2017 for the promotion of the city‟s bid, briefing of the residents about the specific effects of Culture on the local community.

The objective is to ensure timely planned and studied activities and projects which will be scheduled with the cooperation of the Municipalities and communities of the area and funded by European and State programmes.

-

Determining of the budget, the funds that each Municipality and community will use to finance cultural projects and activities that will be realized in the framework of the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

-

Participation of members from the collaborating Municipalities in the coordinating body for the organization and coordination of the collaboration.

In the context of the negotiation stage, the following have already taken place: -

Briefing of all the Mayors of the district.

Separate meetings with each Municipality and the signing of an agreement on the support for Limassol‟s ECOC bid and on collaboration on the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Participation of the Mayors in a special press conference announcing Limassol‟s ECOC bid.

Completion of a special form by each Municipality and community for the submission of information, ideas and suggestions.

Signing of an agreement for support and collaboration with the Union of Cyprus Municipalities governing the cooperation with the communities of the Limassol district.

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(2)

Briefing of the communities in the Limassol district at their General Meeting on 22/6/2011.

Negotiations with European cities on a strategic level Twinned and connected cities All of the cities twinned with Limassol have been informed of its ECOC bid and been asked to support and collaborate with the “Limassol 2017” Programme. An informative letter has been sent by the Mayor of Limassol to the cities of Marseilles, Haifa, Zakynthos, Alexandria, Patras, Ioannina, Heraklion, Rhodes, Thessalonik, Niederkassel and Nanjing.

So far the cities of Niederkassel, Zakynthos, Heraklion and Patras have responded positively and the specifics of their collaboration will be determined at the Selection stage.

Other partnerships Collaboration is being promoted with the Danish cities of Sonderborg and Aarhus which are also bidding to become ECOC 2017. Meetings have already taken place and ideas exchanged for the promotion of cooperation and the realization of joint activities and exchanges.

A visit has also taken place to the Municipality of Bucharest and an agreement for support and cooperation has been signed between the Mayor General of Bucharest and the Mayor of Limassol.

Further development of cooperation between Limassol and Saint Petersburg is being promoted following the joint activities and exchange visits that took place between March and June 2011.

Cooperation will also be promoted with the neighbouring Mediterranean countries of Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Greece, Italy, Spain, France, Malta and other countries of mainland Europe.

(3)

Negotiations with local cultural associations and organizations Regarding the participation of and collaboration with local associations and NonGovernmental Organisations (NGOs), a series of briefings has already taken place and brainstorming workshops are being scheduled.

So far, special meetings have been held for briefing, exchange of ideas and planning purposes with the following cultural associations and organisations: - Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) - Coordinating Council of Limassol Cultural Associations P a g e | 54

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-

Rialto Cultural Association of Limassol Evagoras & Kathleen Lanitis Foundation Diastasis Cultural Association Association of dance and choreographers

Seminar on “Reshaping the centre of Limassol, Castle Square and Antiquities”.

On 14 June, 2011 a seminar was held by the Municipality of Limassol and the Department of Antiquities entitled “Remodelling the centre of Limassol, Castle Square and Antiquities”.

Speakers were the Mayor of Limassol, archaeologist Yiannis Violaris from the Department of Antiquities and Charalambos Bakirtzis, Director of the Anastasios G. Leventis Foundation. Organised groups, social bodies and Limassol citizens also took part. The event was co-funded by the EU‟s European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) , national funds and the Municipal Fund. The topic of the seminar concerned the ongoing project to remodel the historical centre of Limassol and, in particular, the area around the mediaeval castle.

(4)

Negotiations with networks, cultural associations and organisations abroad The strategy includes an integrated approach to the participation of and cooperation with cultural associations, organisations and artists in other countries.

Limassol participates in the following networks: MEDCITIES, EUROPA NOSTRA, INTERCULTURAL CITIES, Q CITIES, LES RENCONTRES and FECC: So far the following contacts and negotiations have taken place: - Negotiations were held with members of the ECOC Sibiu 2007 organising team in Romania for an exchange of views and the transfer of know-how. A meeting was held in Bucharest in April 2011 and another in Limassol in June 2011.

-

Negotiations were held with members of the ECOC Liverpool 2008 organising team. A meeting was held in Liverpool in June 2011 with members of the Liverpool Culture Company which organised the Liverpool 2008 event. The aim was to have an exchange of views and transfer of know-how and to plan cooperation on the “Limassol 2017” Programme. The meeting also included the following organisations which had a substantial participation in the Liverpool 2008 programme.: Liverpool Biennial - The UK‟s International Festival of contemporary art.

Bluecoat - The oldest Grade 1 listed building in the centre of the city of Liverpool dates from the early 18th century (it is also included on UNESCO‟s World Heritage List) Around 1927 the building was transformed into a cultural centre and multi-space area for young artists. In 1958 the building was refurbished to include exhibition spaces, a concert hall, arts

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workshops, artists‟ accommodation and small shops rented only to artists for them to exhibit and sell their work. The building is managed by a Trust funded by the state, the Municipality and private donors.

Static - An organization dealing with cultural projects and exchanges, it belongs to an international network of similar organisations. It took part in Liverpool 2008 with projects and events. Its most recent project is Terminal Convention 2011 in Cork, Ireland which was ECOC 2005.

FACT - With a Gallery and a Cinema, it is one of the leading UK organisations supporting art, film and multimedia with the participation of citizens and special population groups.

Hope Street - An organization specialising in community engagement and creative remodelling programmes.

The meetings, facilitated by the Head of PR at the Liverpool Culture Company with the most important creative and cultural organisations that participated in the Liverpool 2008 programme and are active in European projects and programmes, have created good prospects for collaboration with the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Proposals and ideas are awaited from the above organisations for the “Limassol 2017” Programme while, at the same time, they are willing to participate in projects planned by Limassol Municipality and other European programmes.

-

Cooperation between the Municipality of Limassol and Amphictyony, the European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation of Twinned Cities and Areas of the Mediterranean. The head of Amphictyony, Vasilis Xenos, was invited to Cyprus in May 2011 with the aim of securing the organisation‟s collaboration and participation in the “Limassol 2017” Programme and other possible cooperation with the Limassol Municipality. Amphictyony was set up on the basis of European Regulation 1082/86/2006 and reports directly to the EU‟s Committee of the Regions.

-

Negotiations with choreographer Boris Eifman and a cooperation agreement with the Eifman Ballet of St. Petersberg. A meeting was held in Limassol and the cooperation agreement signed on 8 June, 2011.

-

Negotiations with singer George Dalaras, an honorary citizen of Limassol, on 17 June, 2011.

It was proposed to George Dalaras that he participate in the “Limassol” Programme and, specifically, in the MedVision project described below. The precise form of collaboration will be determined at the Selection stage.

-

On 16 June, 2011 a workshop was held in Limassol in the framework of Limassol‟s participation in the European “Multicultural Cities” Network in collaboration with the Council of Europe which is coordinating the project. The project, which is planned for 2011-

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2013, aims at formulating the correct policies for the better integration of migrants and minorities. At the selection stage, proposals will be finalized for projects in the framework of the “Limassol 2017” Programme which will make the most of the results of the survey and the proposals for the project under development.

-

On 17-18 June, 2011, a two day seminar was held in Limassol entitled “Industrial Heritage, its contribution to architecture, the economy and social identity” in collaboration with the Municipality of Limassol and the International Committee for the Conservation of the Industrial Heritage – TICCIH Greece. The seminar included addresses and presentations by the President of TICCIH Greece, the Kyrenia Distrct Officer, senior officials of the Department of Town Planning & Housing, Limassol Municipality, the Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry, architects and academics from Cyprus and Greece. The seminar venue also hosted two exhibitions, one of photographs from the Limassol Municipal Archive and one of student projects on the re-use of industrial buildings.

For the “Limassol 2017” Programme, proposals or specific projects will be defined at the selection stage.

-

On October 11, 2011 the launching event for the Communication Campaign «One city ... the whole world", is organized by publicizing the results of the research on perceptions of residents of Limassol on interculturalism, together with a related photo exhibition.

The event took place within the framework of the project SPARDA (Shaping Perceptions and Attributes to Realize the Diversity Advantage), funded by the European Union and implemented in cooperation with the Council of Europe and other partners in France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Malta and Greece.

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«One city… the whole world»

Pictures of multicultural events in Limassol

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11.

Events and Activities Selection Process

The “Limassol 2017” Programme, featuring a series of events and activities that are being scheduled for the coming years and, in particular, for 2017 which will be a special and important year for Limassol and the broader district, will be the basic tool with which the objectives and the vision of the project will be achieved.

The theme of each separate event will be linked to the ECOC concept and to the basic idea of the “Limassol 2017” Programme, it will stem from the vision and the objectives, starting with the sea and with Culture as a compass, thereby ensuring: (a)

A well-defined framework of cooperation with other cities, cultural organisations and artists in Cyprus and abroad. The framework of cooperation covering their participation in the “Limassol 2017” Programme will, at the same time, provide for continuous collaboration over time and participation in the contemporary artistic and cultural life of Europe.

(b)

The planning of specific activities and their promotion on a European level. The European dimension is achieved by the promotion of Limassol through dialogue and exchanges with other cultures and artists from other countries of Europe. Activities are selected from every sector of artistic creation, history and culture of the countries of Europe and the Mediterranean. Cultural events, music, dance, theatre, the promotion of archaeological sites and buildings of architectural significance, traditional arts, games, food and drink, art exhibitions and events, photography, film, sculpture, architecture, multimedia, language and literature, athletics, sport (cycling, sailing, etc.) , nature, landscapes, etc.

(c)

Promotion of the common aspects of European culture through research, science, joint studies, joint presentations, comparisons, evaluations, presentations, joint creation, etc.

(d)

Contribution to the strengthening of Limassol‟s ties with Europe through the forging of partnerships, an active participation in Cultural networks, exchanges, participation in European projects, the mutual transfer of know-how, the joint organization of events and the promotion of dialogue for better mutual acquaintance and greater mutual understanding.

We shall especially favour the promotion of cross-border movement by those working in the cultural sector, support for cross-border movement of artists and cultural works and products and support for intercultural dialogue.

(e)

Attract popular interest on local and Europe-wide level through the organization of attractive events and activities that will appeal to the local population and to foreign visitors to Limassol.

(f)

The real and substantial participation of the residents of the city and the district and of visitors in the event. The support and participation of citizens is expected from the early stages with the aim of making the local population feel that they are part of the event.

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This is achieved through brainstorming sessions, the Internet (“Limassol 2017” website), social networks, blogs, etc. and through the promotion of the city‟s candidacy and the spreading of the ECOC concept at all levels. (g)

The programme, the events and activities will secure viability in terms of balancing the investment with the immediate and long-term benefits which will form an integral part of the long-term cultural and social development of Limassol.

(h)

Parts of the programme will aim at specific population targets (young people, women, minorities, etc.)

(i)

Innovation in the planned project.

(j)

For each event and activity the intended results and benefits will be determined in advance.

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The selection procedure for the events and activities will be the following: (a)

Main events

The main activities that will mark the year of the Event will be designed and scheduled from the preliminary stages by the Project Team and the Monitoring Committee. The main events will make up the basic axis around which the programme of the “Limassol 2017” Programme will centre.

The planning and scheduling of the main events will ensure: -

that the basic programme will be founded on the idea of the Cultural Capital of Europe and will satisfy the prime objectives and the criteria of the institution.

-

that the basic programme satisfies the special criteria and the objectives of the “Limassol 2017” Programme stemming from the evaluation and as later defined in the vision and objectives.

-

that it is a programme with high artistic and cultural quality.

-

that the programme of events and activities is both feasible, based on the total available budget and the organisational structure, and viable as well as an integral part of the city‟s long-term development.

-

that the programme as a whole will bring the intended results and benefits and will have the expected impact.

(b)

Other events

The other events that will be included in the “Limassol 2017” Programme will come from the suggestions and proposals of the collaborating Municipalities and villages of the area, the cultural associations and organisations, other organised social and cultural groups and, in general, of all possible partners on both a local and a European level.

To this end a “Proposals Submission” procedure will be followed, special proposal and suggestion submission forms will be distributed, which will describe in detail what is expected of the events and activities (theme, description of the event/activity, partners, funding, venue and time of the proposed event, purpose, expected results, etc.) and information will be sought from the responsible body for the implementation of the event/activity.

Together with the forms, informative material will be distributed giving information about the ECOC concept and the “Limassol 2017” Programme, a leaflet on the preparation of proposals, the evaluation criteria for the proposals and the timetable for their submission to the “Limassol 2017” organization.

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For the evaluation of the proposals, an “Independent Committee” will be appointed which, based on the evaluation criteria, will decide which of the proposals will be included in the programme of the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

The other events and activities will be divided into three categories: Category 1: The proposals that are selected for inclusion in the programme of the main events of the year. These proposals must have the characteristics that make up the main events and will be cofunded from the budget of the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Category 2: The proposals that are selected for inclusion in the “Limassol 2017” Programme and for which funding comes from the organization submitting the proposal. This category will also include proposals obtaining funding from social programmes such as the “Culture” programme.

Category 3: Other proposals for smaller-scale events and activities which can be included in the “Limassol 2017” Programme and or which the “Limassol 2017” organization will be able to support regarding the identification of partners, venues, technical means or small-scale financial assistance.

This category is expected to include proposals from independent artists or small groups of artists.

In every case, the basic criteria analysed above are always expanded by the inclusion of the criterion of quality from the planning stage to implementation.

Concert with Jose Carreras entitled «Mediterranean Passion» organized by the Limassol Municipality and the Limassol Tourism Development Company, at the Limassol Municipal Garden Theatre.

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12. Schedule, Organization structure, Budget 12.1 Schedule The planning of operations for the period 2012 - 2017 is taking into account the stages of application (pre - selection and selection stage) and the progress of the candidature of the City Limassol.

12.2 Organizational Structure Limassolâ€&#x;s ECOC bid is being put together by Papadopoulos and Schinis Productions Ltd., after being selected by the Municipality of Limassol through a Tendering process in April 2011.

Papadopoulos and Schinis Productions Ltd. was founded in 1986 with the aim of organizing and promoting high-quality cultural events.

Through its contacts and links with a large artistic network throughout Europe, Russia, the Middle East and many other countries around the world, it possesses the ability and the experience to select the very best groups and solo artists for the needs of these events.

It has an in-house advertising, promotion and public relations department for the successful and effective promotion of the events and the creation of the necessary printed material.

The company has its own stage management staff and qualified technical and administrative personnel, as well as state-of-the-art sound, projection and lighting systems. It also has its own storage facilities and workshops for set building and with its experienced technical and stage staff, can provide services for a wide range of artistic and other events P a g e | 64

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In Cyprus it is a shareholder in the company Diavlos Pliroforiki, in the national radio station Kanali 9.86 and in N.S.P. Vision, which specializes is television commercials and screenings.

The company has its own offices in London, Athens and Beirut and a partner in Moscow.

Indicative list of events organized CONCERTS BY INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS Luciano Pavarotti, Jose Carreras, Placido Domingo, Andrea Bocelli, Montserrat Caballe & Montserrat Marti, Chris de Burgh, Ian Gillan, Julio Iglesias, Georges Moustaki, Nana Mouskouri, Deborah Myers, Johnny Logan, Vicky Leandros, Christina Branco, Sting CONCERTS BY GREEK ARTISTS Mikis Theodorakis, Giorgos Dalaras Stavros Xarhakos, Dionysis Savvopoulos, Mario Frangoulis, Manos Hadjidakis, Anna Vissi, Despina Vandi, Haris Alexiou, Nena Venetsanou, Glykeria, Eletheria Arvanitaki, Margarita Zorbala, Melina Kana, Haris & Panos Katsimichas, Costas Makedonas, Lavrentis Machairitsas, Demetris Basis,Vasilis Papaconstantinou, Alkistis Protopsalti, Pyx-Lax, Dionysis Tsaknis, Costas Hadjis, Eleni Tsaligopoulou.

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OPERA AIDA (Bolshoi Opera Theatre), IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA (St. Petersburg Mussorsgsky State Opera), LA TRAVIATA (The New Opera of Moscow), RIGOLETTO (St. Petersburg State Opera ), CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA (Athens State Opera ).

CONERENCES & FESTIVALS            

Kypria Festival 2005, Kypria Festival 2007, Kypria Festival 2008, Kypria Festival 2009 Commonwealth Heads of State Conference (October 1993) European Cultural Month, Nicosia European Limassol Festival (November-April every year for the last 12 years) The Great Ballets (July 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006 & 2007) Nicosia Cultural Month (November-April every year) Music 2000 (Music Festival of our gala evenings with Montserrat Caballe & Montserrat Marti, Jose Carreras, the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra and the opera „The Barber of Seville‟).

Verdi Festival Rock Festival Agia Napa Municipality Mediaeval Festival (2006, 2007, 2008) EuroMediterranean Limassol Festival (2006, 2007, 2008) Larnaca Music Festival (2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008)

DANCE PERFORMANCES Ballet Jazz Art, The Bolshoi Ballet, The London Rambert Ballet, The Russian State Ballet, The Kremlin Theatre Ballet, The Place (Richard Alston), The Kirov Ballet, The Estonia National Ballet, The Bolshoi State Theatre Ballet, Ground Crew (Greece), Zorba Ballet (Lorca Massine), Ballet Austin (Texas), Maurice Bejart – Lausanne, Eifman State Ballet, Diastasis Dance Group SOLO RECITALS Julian Lloyd Webber, Cyprien Katsaris, Notis Mavroudis, Dimitris Sgouros, Marios Papadopoulos, Vasilis Saleas, Stephanos Korkolis ORCHESTRAL CONCERTS Berkeley Orchestra, European Community Orchestra, Moscow State Philharmonic Orchestra, London Chamber Orchestra, Orchestra of the City of Oxford, Westminster Philharmonic Orchestra, Novaya Opera Theatre of Moscow, Russian State Academic Balalaika Orchestra, B.B.C. Concert Orchestra, La Camerata - Friends of Music Orchestra, Kremlin Palace Presidential Orchestra, State Orchestra of Greek Music

For the ECOC bid, the company has set up a Strategy and Action Group made up of suitable and able individuals for the preparation of the candidacy document and the implementation of the Strategy and Actions for the period 2012-2017.

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The selection of the members of the Strategy and Action Group was made, taking into consideration the demands of the task and it includes people with knowledge and experience of, and links with, the following:  Project planning, coordination, organization, funding and management.  The historical and cultural background of Limassol, the broader district and Cyprus in general.  The drawing up and submission of proposals to European Cultural and other programmes of funding through state, cross-border, European and other funding programmes of the European Commission.  Networking on a local and international level.  Publicity and Promotion of major events.  European Cultural policy.  Adequate experience and participation in previous ECOC events.

The Strategy and Action Group includes the Project Leader who has the following duties:      

Coordination of the Project Team and the participation and responsibilities of the experts preparing the bid document and the Strategy and Actions for the period 2012-2017.

Allocation of tasks, preparation and monitoring of the timetable.

Fixing of tasks and determining the crucial points in order to ensure the quality of the services on offer and the timely implementation of the fringe activities.

Overall Responsibility for results, services provided and deliverables.

Preparation of the Starting, Progress and Final Reports with clear references to what has been achieved.

Maintenance of permanent and continuous cooperation with the Municipality of Limassol and the Monitoring Committee, briefing them on implementation progress, tasks that have been completed and the solutions and choices adopted.

The Monitoring Committee has been set up, consisting of officials of Limassol Municipalty, to monitor progress, to approve progress reports and to take decisions.

The Monitoring Committee is chaired by the Mayor of Limassol and coordinated by the Municipal Secretary. The Legal Officer of the Municipality is also on the Committee.

The managerial structure of the Monitoring Committee ensures the timely taking of decisions and gives the required weight to the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

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The members of the Project Team have worked closely together on other projects, which guarantees in advance that there is bonding, acceptance and cooperation, important elements for the success of an advisory group.

The directors of Papadopoulos and Schinis Productions Ltd., Marios Papadopoulos and Panicos Schinis have taken up their duties in the Project Team.

Management and coordination of the Project Team has been undertaken by Chrysses Nicolaides, who has a long and multifaceted experience in project planning and implementation, project management and coordination, the drawing up of Strategic Planning studies and the process of preparing proposals for funding from European Programmes. He is also experienced in service quality management and monitoring, in the high-quality presentation of proposals and in the planning and coordination of cultural and other events.

Another member of the Team is the composer and producer Vasos Argyrides who has specialist knowledge and experience of the cultural scene in Limassol and Cyprus, with particular experience in evaluating artistic groups and individual artists and in networking with cultural organisations and associations in Cyprus and abroad.

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Titos Kolotas, with his multifaceted, long experience as a journalist, producer and publisher was selected for the Project Team as a special adviser with experience and knowledge of, and links with, the cultural scene in Limassol and Cyprus more generally. His knowledge and experience gained through the considerable work of Limassol Municipality‟s Committee for European Issues and Programmes, of which he was the first Chairman for a five-year term, is also important.

Anna Marangou is participating as a special adviser on historical and cultural issues pertaining to Limassol and to the whole of Cyprus. She has considerable experience in the organization and coordination of large-scale events and has written extensively on the Cypriot history and culture.

She has served on the Boards of notable cultural and other organisations and has curated a series of exhibitions with both historical and cultural content. She has also organised and managed among others, the participation of Limassol Municipality in ECOC 2006 in Patras. She is fluent in Greek, English, French and German.

Kathy Christodoulou, Head of Customer Service and Network Development at Action Global Communications, was selected as an expert on issues relating to Communications Strategy, publicity and promotion of large-scale events in Cyprus and abroad, in particular in countries where Action maintains offices (Europe and the Middle East).

After investigating and looking at experts with a significant participation in recent and successful ECOC events, it was decided that the Project Team would also include the following members for their know-how and experiences: Claire McColgan was the coordinator of Liverpool 2008 from the initial stages of the bidding process until the completion of the event. Claire was awarded the MBE for her work and dedication regarding Liverpool‟s ECOC bid.

Dr. Sergiu Nistor, who was honoured by the French Government in 2003 with the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres and by the Romanian Government in 2004 with the Cultural Merit Award, played an important role in the organization of ECOC 2007 in Sibiu, Romania.

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Technical and Professional Experience of members of the Project Team

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“Limassol 2017” Office For management and information purposes, a “Limassol 2017” office has been established in the city centre. It has been especially equipped and decorated for the needs of the ECOC bid and following the inauguration of the office on 13 May, 2011, the campaign began to inform the people of Limassol about the city‟s bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2017.

“Limassol 2017” Organisation The organization is being set up by the Municipality of Limassol as a Foundation or a not-for-profit company with a corresponding charter, to undertake the implementation of the ECOC programme.

The “Limassol 2017” organization will be independent of all operational and artistic issues and management and monitoring will be restricted to issues of Strategy and Finance.

The organization will be the interlocutor with the European Commission, especially at the supervisory stage and in case the city is selected.

Organizational Structure

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Support Group: Comprising of a number of important social and cultural personalities and representatives of organisations and companies from the cultural, social, and tourism sectors, etc., the group will provide support to the Municipality of Limassol and the organization on strategic issues such as financing, partnerships, public relations, etc.

Evaluation Group: It will undertake the evaluation and impact of the results. The group will consist of specialists in collaboration with the Cyprus University of Technology.

Collaborating Municipalities: Setting up of a Management and Monitoring Group by the collaborating Municipalities.

Strategy and Action Group: The Project Team which has undertaken the preparation of the city‟s ECOC bid and the Strategy and Action for the pre-selection and selection stages.

Monitoring Committee: The committee appointed by the Municipality which has undertaken to monitor the procedure of preparing and promoting the ECOC bid.

Artistic Committee: The committee will have a strictly supporting role and its members will cover the main genres of artistic creation (music, dance, theatre, photography, film, sculpture, architecture, sport, traditional arts and crafts, etc.)

The committee will comprise a number of groups (of 3-5 people in each) from the main artistic genres and their aim is to support the “Limassol 2017” organization with suggestions and ideas and to inform and encourage the participation of the broader artistic human resources of the city, the country and abroad.

Project Leader: The person responsible for the realization of the project with specific and required powers and authority and overall management and artistic responsibility. He/she will be the executive director of the “Limassol 2017” organization and is expected to be appointed in accordance with specific selection criteria and a clearly identified field of activity.

Events and Productions Unit: The unit undertaking the management of the programme and the events, it will coordinate all the involved organizations, monitoring of the production of all the activities and events associated with “Limassol 2017” and the quality monitoring of the activities and events that will be held in collaboration with other bodies and organizations in Cyprus and abroad.

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Financial Unit: The unit undertaking the financial management of the Event. Budget, revenue, expenses, tenders, subcontracting, etc.

Promotion, Publicity and Public Relations Unit: The unit that will undertake the communications strategy, sponsors management and the coordination of partners in Cyprus and abroad.

Secretarial and Technical Support Unit: The unit that will provide secretarial and technical support to the “Limassol 2017” organization.

Correspondence, telecommunications, printing, translations, etc.

At the stage of selecting Limassol’s candidacy, responsibilities will be determined at all levels.

Staffing for the Organizational Structure is expected to take place gradually according to the needs and progress of the ECOC bid and to be completed around December 2012.

On the issue of recruitment, subcontractors will be used for certain specialized responsibilities, with the necessary prerequisites, always with a view to ensuring the best and most efficient implementation of the programme.

12.3 Organization, Management and Monitoring The management of the “Limassol 2017” organization will possess the necessary strategic qualifications to manage large and complex projects with the special characteristics of artistic events, exhibitions, conferences and other cultural initiatives and projects. It will have experience and know-how in project leadership and management and in issues relating to finance, quality and monitoring. At the same time it will have experience with European issues, with managing and leading European programmes and projects and particular experience regarding the ECOC institution and concept, and it will have links and contacts on a local, European and international level. It will have ability and experience in communications issues at all levels, in quality management, crisis management and problem solving.

The members of the team which will manage the ECOC programme must combine experience with creativity and have the necessary qualifications so as cover all areas: -

Team management and coordination.

Drawing up of the work timetable, allocation of tasks.

Monitoring the quality of services provided, the timely realization of specific activities and actions and maintaining the timetable.

Preparation and delivery of progress and results reports.

Financial management.

Issues relating to communication and coordination with all partners in Cyprus and abroad.

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-

Ensuring the quality of the contacts and the networks that will be set up.

Scheduling of meetings and briefings at all levels of the organizational structure.

Preparation of progress report for the EU‟s supervisory and advisory committee.

The organization must possess all the necessary equipment (computers, software programmes, communications systems, etc.) and the essential secretarial premises on which all units and services will be housed.

12.4 Tasks The “Limassol 2017” organization will be responsible for implementing the ECOC 2017 Strategy and carrying out a broad range of activities which are summarized below: 

Partnerships Promotion and management of partnerships at a local, European and international level.

Partnerships include all those working on the “Limassol 2017” Programme: cultural organizations, individual artists and groups, collaborating cities, sponsors and supporters.



Programme of Events and Activities Drawing up and monitoring of the finalized “Limassol 2017” Programme of events and activities.



Financial management Management of finances in accordance with the budget.



Publicity/Promotion/Communication Drawing up of an integrated programme of publicity, promotion and communication for the “Limassol 2017” Programme.



Volunteering Development and management of a programme to set up a team of volunteers.

The management of the organization will prepare an annual programme for the years 2013-2017 with details on all the above tasks. Annual planning will include details of all the events, activities and projects to be implemented during the year in relation to ECOC 2017.

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12.5. Financial Needs and Funding ( all amounts in Euro)

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12.6 Ongoing Projects In recent years, Limassol has been developing through a series of infrastructure projects which are remodeling and upgrading the city and through large construction projects with investment by the Local Authorities, the public and private sectors.

The projects are divided into the following categories:

The following tables describe the individual projects and analyze the amounts in mil. Euros according to the respective budgets. (a)

Projects completed in 2011 (amounts in mil. Euro)

Year of completion

2011

Construction and renovation of roads Renovation of squares, parks, green spaces Building the Municipal Historical Archive and Museum Reconstruction of pavements throughout the city Renovation and expansion of Multipurpose Center Cultural centre in Ankara street Purchase of equipment and vehicles

13.10 8.00 0.90 10.00 0.10 0.20 2.00

Total Investment

34.30

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(b)

Ongoing projects (amounts in mil. Euro) Year of completion

2011

Renovation of Cyprus Theatre Museum Multifunctional Seaside Park Regeneration of the old Limassol port Renovation of the Pattichion Municipal Theatre Road construction Renovation of "Lambousa" boat City centre redevelopment "Garyllis" linear park Limassol Marina Restoring Municipal Library building

0.20

Total Investment

0.20

(c)

2012

2013

TOTAL

16.00 15.00 350.00 4.00

0.20 16.00 15.00 8.00 65.00 0.20 16.00 15.00 350.00 4.00

385.00

489.40

16.00 15.00 8.00 65.00 0.20

104.20

Projects planned to commence during the next few months (amounts in mil. Euro)

Year of completion Landscaping of Agias Filas crossing Bridge connecting the "Fitidio" Athletic center with the beach Renovation of squares, road building Reconstruction of sidewalks and asphalt roads Large road works Passenger Station in New Port Extension of new port Underground parking

Total Investment

2012

2013

2014

TOTAL

0.30

0.30

0.70 1.00 4.50

0.70 1.00 4.50 9.00 15.00 50.00 11.70

9.00 15.00 50.00 11.70

6.50

85.70

0.00

92.20

12.7 Other Planned Infrastructure Projects Planning of projects for cultural and other infrastructures and urban regeneration is at the study and design stage. Reference is made indicatively to the following:

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-

-

Full restoration and extension of the Municipal Library Construction of a modern conference centre Expanding and upgrading the building Municipal Art Gallery Remodeling of the city centre (Phase 2) Exploitation of the Enaerios area Upgrading of green areas and the creation of special areas for children, young people and senior citizens Exploitation of Limassol‟s industrial heritage Creation of a Cultural Centre and Space for Young Artists in the Central Municipal Market of Linassol Artistic illumination project for important buildings in the city Complete overhaul of Public Garden Visual Arts Centre - Papadakis Warehouses Project to create Artificial Reef

Artistic illumination project for important buildings in the city For this purpose the map of Limassol‟s old buildings that was drawn up on the initiative of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (the international non-governmental organization established in 1930 in Switzerland with the aim of promoting and empowering women in their professional development) will be used.

The aim of the project is to focus attention on buildings of significant architectural value in the city centre and to encourage their owners, many of whom are private citizens, to restore them.

Map of old buildings in Limassol

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Some important projects due for completion before 2017 Limassol Marina

Estimated to cost more than 350 million Euros, Limassol Marina is an exclusive waterfront development designed by a world-renowned team or architects and engineers. It combines elegant residences and a stateof-the-art marina with an enticing mix of boutiques, restaurants and shops, to create a lifestyle uniquely shaped by „living on the sea‟.

Just a stroll away from the heart of the city, it is designed to blend seamlessly with the old harbour, the town‟s historic centre and the medieval castle. It is destined to become the most exclusive marina resort in the Mediterranean- and one of the finest in the world.

With Camper & Nicholsons appointed as the marina operator and a capacity of 650 berths, Limassol Marina will accommodate all types of leisure boats from sailing yachts to megayachts and provide facilities and services of the highest standard. It will be ready to welcome the first yachts in the autumn of 2012.

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Redesign of the City Centre This project, which aims at the remodeling, upgrading and viable development of Limassol city centre as a unified complex comprising individually functioning areas, will make up the central commercial and services area and will retain its own symbolism and character. The chief aim is to increase the use, to modernize and to bring a quality/aesthetic upgrading and revival to the centre.

The project has been incorporated into the planning period 2007-2013 of the European Sustainable Competitiveness programme of the European Regional Development Fund.

Contracts to carry out the project were signed on 20 January 2010. It will take three years to complete and the cost is estimated around €24 million.

Multifunctional Seaside Park The need to remodel the reclamation area (promenade) is based on the new realities regarding development which go back to 2002 with the drawing up of the “Limassol Centre Plan – provisions and policy measures” but also on the new demands and needs of users of the promenade as identified and are noted below: The reclamation area needs to be linked functionally to the rest of the city with various places of access and changes to the seafront so as to restore the functional relationship between the city centre and the sea by exploiting remaining opportunities without ignoring the overall planning principles governing the city as a whole.

Determining the functional relationship of the area north of the coastal road with the seafront comprising the promenade, the old port and a small area west of the port where the site location of the marina is planned with all the related uses incorporated into the plan of the broader marina area.

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The inclusion of the seafront promenade in the study is based on the provisions of the Area Plan which gives particular significance to the city‟s seaside identity and which are mainly concerned with the functional and spatial structure of the plan, creating visual and functional relationships between the seafront and the hinterland.

The project has been incorporated into the planning period 2007 -2013 of the European Sustainable Competitiveness programme of the European Regional Development Fund and is due to be completed in 2013 at an estimated total cost of €13 million.

Garyllis Linear Park The aim of the project is to reverse the present marginalization of the Garyllis River bed through planned remodeling, organization and traffic management which provides for links via a cycle path, a footpath and a green linear park.

Beautification of the river bed will cover a distance of 5 ½ kilometers from the old port to the northern boundaries of Kato Polemidia Municipality and from the fork south of the 2nd Technical School as far as Agia Phyla Street, west of the Lanition Stadium.

The project has been incorporated into the planning period 2007 -2013 of the European Sustainable Competitiveness programme of the European Regional Development Fund and is due to be completed in 2013 at an estimated total cost of €13 million.

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12.8 Sponsorship Seeking Process The private sector and, in particular, the international companies based in Limassol, is expected to play a significant role in the ECOC process, especially during the year of the event and in subsequent years.

Companies and organizations will be encouraged to participate dynamically in this major event by providing services and financial support.

Private organizations and international companies have always offered support and assistance to the city‟s programmes and it is expected that they will show particular interest in the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

In order to brief the business community, meetings and presentations are being scheduled in close cooperation with the Limassol Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the Cyprus Shipping Chamber and other business associations with the objective of attracting sponsorship and support and securing their participation in the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Sponsor category

Number

Amount

TOTAL

Official sponsors

4

150,000

600,000

Main sponsors

10

80,000

800,000

Sponsors and supporters

20

30,000

600,000

TOTAL

34

2,000,000

At the same time, sponsorships, support and participation in specific events, projects and activities of the “Limassol 2017” Programme may also be arranged.

In order to gain the participation and support of the private sector, presentations and briefings will be scheduled on the social and financial benefits that the title European Capital of Culture will bring to the city, to business and, in particular, to tourism.

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12.9 Communications Strategy If Limassol is selected as European Capital of Culture, this will be of particular importance for the city and, above all, for its residents.

Through the award of the ECOC 2017 title, Limassol, the broader district with the collaborating Municipalities and villages and, indeed, the whole of Cyprus will be in the international spotlight, promoting the city, the district and the country through an integrated communications strategy adapted to the size and reach of both the institution and the events scheduled especially for the year.

The communications campaign aimed at the city and the district started at the pre-selection stage with the main aim of announcing the candidacy of Limassol and informing the city‟s residents about the ECOC institution.

The pre-selection stage dealt with the following: -

Creation of a logo for the Limassol 2017 bid Setting up of a Limassol 2017 website Setting up of a Facebook page Establishment of a Limassol 2017 information office in the city centre Publication and distribution of informative material Holding of press conferences Arranging of briefings of cultural associations and organisations, Municipalities and villages in the district and other local officials Carrying out of small-scale publicity activities in central areas of the city and at major events

The integrated communications strategy which is due to be completed at the final selection stage aims to achieve the following: (1)

Informing and communicating with citizens In the framework of long-term contacts with the Limassol public, it is essential to create channels for continuous briefing and communication throughout the Limassol district. This briefing and communication must use every available means and be based on a broader strategic plan. The Internet, print media, television, radio and personal contacts are all especially important in achieving the project‟s stated aims.

A particularly important component of the campaign should be the feeling of pride in every resident, given that his/her city will be the European Capital of Culture. After making a start with this element, the necessary action must then be taken so that the people of the city are kept informed, hold an opinion and participate in the whole process.

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(2)

Publicity and Promotion for the events, activities and projects of the Limassol 2017 Programme.

The communications strategy includes an overall promotion and publicity plan for all the events, activities and projects of the Limassol 2017 Programme with the aim of attracting visitors from Cyprus and abroad.

(3)

Promotion of the city as European Capital of Culture The significant achievement of being awarded the ECOC title will be promoted with the aim of attracting visitors.

Effective promotion of the city abroad, without significantly burdening the budget, can be achieved via the Internet and social networking sites, on television via the state satellite channel which is aimed chiefly at Cypriots abroad and through special programmes on other selected channels as part of collaboration agreements.

Travel and tourism fairs in many countries of Europe and beyond are another important promotional platform and cooperation may be arranged in partnership with the Cyprus Tourism Organisation.

(4)

Promotion of the European Union Every stage of the communications process will include promotion of the European Union which awards the ECOC title.

Representatives of the European Union will be invited to all the main events, in particular to the ceremony for the awarding of the title and the “Limassol 2017” opening and closing ceremonies, and the European dimension to the whole event will be promoted.

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13.

Schedule of Activities

13.1 Scheduling of Activities – Selection Stage At the selection stage negotiations at local, European and international level should be completed with the aim of finalising the events.

Scheduling of activities for 2012 – selection stage Information campaign and promotion of Limassol‟s candidacy.

Planning of projects and submission of proposals to Community programmes for funding.

Completion of the selection process for events and activities.

Completion of communications strategy.

Setting up of the “Limassol 2017” organisation, Evaluation Group, Support Group and Artistic Committees.

Completion of the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Completion of plans and scheduling of urban and tourism infrastructure and remodelling projects due for completion by 2017.

Meetings / Conferences / Brainstorming Workshops: for the completion of negotiations and collaborations at local, European and international level and the finalising of the events.

Finalising of partnerships and participation in the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Meetings / Conferences / Brainstorming Workshops – selection stage Meeting with representatives of Limassol schools (state and private) with artistic and cultural links for briefing and planning purposes.

The objective is the creation of a group of Young Advisers who will undertake to present ideas for the participation of young people in the “Limassol 2017” Programme and to design events and activities for inclusion in the programme.

Meeting with representatives of Colleges of Tertiary Education in Limassol and of their student organisations to plan events and activities for inclusion in the programme.

Finalising collaboration with the CUT and the formation of a student group which will undertake to present ideas and proposals for the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Exchanges with specific groups in other European cities can be planned on time for exchanges of views and the transfer of know-how.

Conference in Limassol on the subject of Culture, in the framework of Limassol‟s candidacy.

Invitations will be sent to representatives of twinned cities, candidate cities in Denmark, Bucharest, Liverpool, St. Petersburg, other European networks and other cultural organisations.

The conference agenda will include: 1. A tour of Limassol and the surrounding area (theatres, museums, archaeological sites, conference venues, the city centre, the seafront projects, etc.) for everyone.

2. Presentation of the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

3. Brainstorming workshop for the joint design of proposals.

4. Proposals for partnerships and participation.

The cities collaborating on the 2017 carnival (Venice, Patra, Genoa, etc.) will be invited to attend the 2012 carnival with the aim of finalising their participation in the “Limassol 2017” Programme and P a g e | 85

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enabling them to form an opinion of the carnival events, and holding a brainstorming workshop for ideas and suggestions regarding their collaboration.

Seminar for cultural associations and organisations in Limassol with invited specialists from abroad who will present their experiences arising from their participation in European cultural programmes and networks, and the benefits of an active participation in the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Conference in Limassol with invited specialists for an exchange of views and suggestions on the topic “Urban Development with Culture as a Compass”.

Conference/Meeting in Limassol with representatives of all the ethnic groups that make up the local social fabric with the aim of briefing them and coming up with ideas for their support of and participation in the Limassol 2017 programme.

Event in Limassol for the organisation and promotion of volunteerism and the formation of a group of volunteers for the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Conference/Meeting in Limassol on the subject of wine, wine routes, etc. Invitations will be sent to a group of experts from Cyprus and abroad to study the topic and submit proposals for the “Limassol 2017” Programme.

Finalisation of partnerships and participation in the “Limassol 2017” Programme Finalisation of collaboration with Municipalities and villages in the district.

Finalisation of collaboration with local cultural associations and organisations.

Finalisation of collaboration with other cities: Existing partnerships will be exploited with neighbouring Mediterranean countries such as Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Greece, Italy, France and Malta as well as with other countries of mainland Europe.

Collaboration with the twinned cities of Marseilles, Haifa, Zakynthos, Alexandria, Patras, Heraklion, Rhodes, Thessaloniki, Niederkassel, Nanjing and St. Petersburg.

Collaboration with the Danish ECOC 2017 candidate cities of Sonderborg και Aarhus.

Other partnerships.

Finalisation of collaboration with individual artists and groups of artists in Cyprus and abroad.

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13.2 Scheduling of Activities 2013 -2017

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14. Synopsis The Strategy refers to a specific plan of action for obtaining the title European Capital of Culture and, on being awarded the title, implementing the “Limassol 2017” Programme which provides the city of Limassol with a real opportunity to maximize the benefits that will accrue.

With the ambition of seeing the “Limassol 2017” Programme being remembered in Limassol as one of the most important events ever held in the city and in Cyprus as a whole, and becoming a “cultural compass” for coming generations, the study proposes the cultural strategy with a commitment to implement a broadly accepted framework of action over a number of years. This commitment is confirmed by a number of decisions concerning both the political and management aspects and they are basic prerequisites for the success of the entire endeavour.

Agreement on the implementation of a long-term programme means that its basic premises and aims will not be affected by any changes to the political leadership but will remain consistent for a long period, exclusively serving the city, its future development and its residents. Any amendments to the plan will only be made for reasons of greater productivity and effectiveness.

The management, coordination and supervision of the project has been undertaken by the “Limassol 2017” organisation which, armed with the necessary authority, budget and timetable, will contribute to the smooth management and monitoring of the programme‟s implementation through a series of actions based on the responsibilities that it will be allocated.

2017 will be a milestone for the city of Limassol and a cultural compass for future generations.

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Appendices I.

Existing Institutions/Events

Limassol Carnival. The biggest carnival in Cyprus and one of the biggest in Europe. Originality: the large and globally unique childrenâ€&#x;s parade which takes place one week before the Grand Parade and in which thousands of children take part together with a large number of music and singing groups .

Limassol Wine Festival. A one-of-a-kind popular event in Cyprus (and one of the biggest in Europe) which attracts over 100,000 Cypriot and foreign visitors every year. Free wine, cheap traditional food and Snapshot of the Grand Carnival Parade in Limassol dozens of artistic, music, dance and theatre performances, also free.

Flower Festival (Athestiria). An ancient religious tradition which has its roots in the ancient rituals marking the coming of Spring at Ancient Amathus (Old Limassol).

It was revived in the 20th century

by Limassol Municipality and in recent years, following agreement among the other Municipalities, it has been organised by Yermasoyia Municipality with the participation of all the other Municipalities of Greater Limassol.

Limassol wine festival

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Kataklysmos. The tradition of Kataklysmos dates from the time of the worship of the Cypriot goddess Aphrodite and of the god Adonis at Amathus where there were altars to both deities. The modern Kataklysmos celebrations are linked to the Christian festival of the Holy Spirit and games were held in the seaside cities, towns and villages. The residents would go to the beach to play, swim in the sea or pour seawater which was thought to cleanse them physically and spiritually, while enjoying music, dance and poetry contests and rhyming competitions. The poetical games link us once again with antiquity.

Kataklysmos takes place over three days in Limassol along the seaside promenade (approximately 2 kilometres) where, apart from the entertainment programme with Cypriot groups there is a large open-air market selling traditional and other products and authentic Cypriot dishes.

“The Great Ballets” Dance is a favourite and widespread art form in Limassol which began approximately one hundred years ago and continued with the first dance schools in Cyprus and the presence of well-known dance groups in the context of the Limassol Arts Festival which was held in the city. Since 2000, the annual institution of “The Great Ballets” has undoubtedly been one of the major artistic and cultural events in Cyprus, honouring Limassol and attracting crowds of local and foreign visitors, making the city a cultural centre with an international reputation.

The event has hosted globally renowned ballet companies such as the Kirov, Bolshoi and Kremlin Ballets from Russia, the Hungarian National Ballet, the Michael Flatley Dance Group, Carmen Mota‟s Flamenco Dance Group, the Nuevo Ballet Espanol, the Bejart Ballet Lausanne and the Eifman Ballet of St. Petersburg.

European Limassol Festival. An annual event held under the auspices of Limassol Municipality and funded by the Ministry of Education and Culture, featuring internationally acclaimed music and dance groups from Europe, Greece and Cyprus.

International Film Festival. An annual event organised by the Rialto Theatre in conjunction with the Ministry of Education and Culture.

Platanisteia Short Film Festival.

Limassol International Folk Festival. An annual event featuring folk groups from all over Europe.

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Ethnic Festival. Organised by the Rialto Theatre, it is an annual event featuring musicians of the Mediterranean.

International Choirs Meeting.

International Serenaders Meeting. An annual event organised by Limassol Municipality featuring Cypriot and foreign groups of serenaders.

Limassol Municipality People’s University.

Its objective is lifelong learning and the provision of opportunities for instruction, education and the cultivation of culture to the citizens of Greater Limassol. Among the lecture cycles that have taken place during its 10 years and more are “ Viable Society, Viable State”, “Cyprus‟ Accession to the European Union”, “European Union: The Rights and Obligations of Cypriot Citizens”, “History and Culture, “Culture – Society – Economy” and more.

Choirs and Choral Meetings/Events. (The choirs of Aris, Diastasis, the Literary Society, Modern Times, Choice and others.)

European Dance Festival, European Modern Dance Festival, Modern Dance Platform. These annual events are organized by the Rialto Theatre. The European Dance Festival is organised by the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Rialto Theatre in collaboration with the embassies and cultural centres of the participating countries. It is an important dance meeting with the participation of many European countries, a panorama of dance in which the latest modern dance trends are presented.

Amathusia Festival. The festival is organised every year by the Agios Tychonas Village Council and funded by the Ministry of Education and Culture. It takes place in the superb location of Ancient Amathus in Limassol, among the ruins of the ancient city.

Limassol Russia-Cyprus Festival. An annual event organised by Limassol Municipality, the Embassy of Russia and the Russian community P a g e | 91

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in Limassol with events reflecting the culture of both countries with the aim of strengthening ties.

Rainbow Festival. An annual anti-racism multicultural festival aimed at promoting racial multiculturalism and the acceptance of diversity with the participation of all the ethnic communities living and working in Limassol.

Commandaria Festival. An annual event promoting the long-celebrated Commandaria wine in cultural and other events jointly organised by the villages of the Kourris river valley.

Ancient Drama Festival. An annual event organised by the International Theatre Institute Cyprus in conjunction with the Cyprus Tourism Organisation and the Cyprus Theatre Organisation at the Ancient Curium amphitheatre.

Shakespeare at Curium. An annual event organised in collaboration with the British community of Limassol at the Ancient Curium amphitheatre.

Berengaria Classical Music Festival. An annual event featuring internationally renowned classical music soloists and organised by Polemidia Municipality in conjunction with the Rialto Theatre.

Beer Festival. A major annual celebration on the Limassol seafront promenade, the beer equivalent of the Wine Festival.

Global, European and International Conferences. Although Limassol does not possess its own Conference Centre at present (construction is planned for the coming years) it is nonetheless the main centre for international and European conferences in Cyprus held in the cityâ€&#x;s many five-star seaside hotels which are fully equipped for the purpose.

Pictures of the Junior Eurovision, held in Limassol.

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ΙΙ.

European Programmes and Networks

The most important European programmes in which Limassol Municipality participates are the following: Interreg IIIA Greece - Cyprus: Promotion of Maritime Tradition of Chios and Cyprus and interconnection of the tourist industry.

Europe for Citizens: Name of Project: “The social integration of dependent individuals in the framework of the practical application of the European Charter for Equality of Women and Men in Local Life”.

European Integration Fund: Name of Project: „„Educational Seminars for Local Authorities, NGOs, Social Partners, Academic Institutions and Semi-government Organisations on issues of intercultural education and development of the ability to handle diversity.”

Intelligent Energy – Europe: CONURBANT. Proposal for “An equal non-exclusive approach for the inclusion of Community urban groups and broader urban areas in the Mayoral Pact” (CONURBANT).

Intercultural Cities: The Intercultural Cities network is a joint initiative of the Council of Europe and the European Commission aimed at helping cities formulate the correct policies to ensure better integration of migrants and minorities.

MARAKANDA proposal in the framework of the ENPI CYMED programme on cross-border cooperation in the Mediterranean.

Main activities: To transfer some European and international best practices to the Southern Shore of the Mediterranean on Municipal Market issues in terms of economic management, networking, the enrichment of handicrafts and high quality traditional products. Exchanges of personnel, drawing up of an action plan for the Municipal Market.

Partners: Municipality of Florence (Coordinator), Municipality of Genoa, Union of Xanthe Municipalities, Municipality of Jablah (Syria), CRUIE (University of Genoa) National Research Centre (Egypt), Municipal Institute of Markets, Barcelona (Spain), Plural Study Centre (Italy), Soul El Tayeb NGO (Lebanon), Municipality of Favara (Sicily).

Since December 2007, Limassol Municipality has been a member of the QCities (Quality Cities) network, the objective of which is to exchange and promote innovative ideas and best practices in the provision of assistance to citizens and to improve local government services.

Members of the QCities (Quality Cities) network include the Municipalities of Fonte Nuova (Italy), Ghent (Belgium), Lakatamia (Cyprus), Strovolos (Cyprus), Nea Ioania Magnesia (Greece), Ploiesti (Romania), Porto (Portugal), Umea (Sweden), Voula (Greece), Xanthe (Greece).

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III.

Cultural Infrastructures

Cultural Venues/Places of Culture Cyprus Mediaeval Museum. It is housed inside the mediaeval castle in the historical centre of Limassol.

Municipal Library. It possesses a rich collection of sculpture and paintings by artists from Limassol and elsewhere and a space for art exhibitions and other events.

Pattichion Archive-Museum, Limassol Municipal Centre for History Studies.

Limassol Bishopric Byzantine Museum. Housed inside the old bishopric.

Municipal Garden Theatre. This venue, the only one of its kind in Cyprus, is located in the large municipal garden and offers unique moments during the summer months. Seats around 2000 people.

Limassol A’ Municipal Market. This superb 1917 industrial building was remodelled in the 1930s and again during the first decade of the 21st century.

Limassol Municipal Folk Art Museum Municipal Arts Centre (Donnation Papadakis). Currently taking shape inside an old industrial warehouse, it will operate soon as a venue for art events and exhibitions.

A’ Limassol Municipal Market

Municipal Conservatory Museum Solon Michaelides Archaeological and Religious Sites st

The 1 Municipal Market in Limassol Limassol Mediaeval Castle, Kolossi Mediaeval Castle, Ancient Curium (with an ancient outdoor theatre seating 1,500), the Temple of Apollo Hylates, Ancient Amathus (“Old Limassol”), Episkopi Museum, Byzantine churches and other old churches and mosques in Limassol, the Greater area and other sites.

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Other Venues Municipal Garden and Zoo. The oldest and biggest garden in Cyprus with a small zoo designed to European specifications.

District Archaeological Museum.

Pattichion Municipal Theatre. Capacity: 600 seats (currently undergoing refurbishment).

B’ Municipal Market Multi-purpose venue. The old small Municipal Market as been transformed into a multi-purpose venue hosting theatrical performances and other cultural events.

Panos Solomonides Cultural Foundation. Now a cultural venue, this former printing works is an excellent example of an old industrial building. It contains exhibition halls and a multi-purpose events space.

Carnival Museum. Currently taking shape within the Panos Solomonides Cultural Foundation, it will feature exhibitions of masks, fancy dress costumes, photographs and other items from the History of the Limassol Carnival.

Rialto Theatre Cultural Organisation. Rialto Theatre is a not-for-profit organisation and cultural venue funded mainly by the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Limassol Cooperative Savings Bank. Its auditorium seats 500 and it is extremely active on the cultural scene. Since its first day of operations (1999), the Rialto Theatre has welcomed thousands of people to more than 1,200 performances of which approximately 40% have been music, 22% theatre, 18% cinema, 16% dance and the remaining 4% opera and other genres.

International Outdoor Sculpture Park. The Sculpture Symposium, a large cultural event held by Limassol Municipality, has transformed the city‟s seaside reclamation area (promenade) into a Sculpture Park with works by artists from Cyprus, Greece and elsewhere, where citizens can enjoy the works of art that accompany their walks, relaxation or games with their children.

Limassol Municipal Dance Centre. Located within the Limassol Municipal Garden Theatre, the aim of the Limassol Municipal Dance Centre (MSDC) is to help talented pupils wishing to turn professional by meeting the needs of pre-professional training for the future dancers of Cyprus and providing in-depth ballet training.

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Pattichion Municipal Theatre Limassol Capacity 740 places

Limassol Municipal Gardens Theatre Capacity 1.870 places

Rialto Theatre Limassol Capacity 500 places

Kourion Ancient Theatre Limassol Capacity 3.000 places

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Tracasol Warehouses. The old stone-built warehouses on the site of Limassol Marina are already in the process of being restored and transformed for a variety of cultural and museum purposes and events.

Limassol Old Port. The small port of Limassol in the heart of the historical centre is in the process of being restored and transformed by the Cyprus Ports Authority into a traditional fishing harbour with many areas for entertainment, dining and all types of exhibitions and events in which the main feature will be the city‟s island character.

The Old Port of Limassol

Renovation of the Old Port

Limassol New Port Warehouses Papadakis Municipal Conservatory and Museum. Archive of the internationally renowned Limassol musicologist Solon Michaelides.

International Conference Centre. Under study for construction next to the Limassol Marina.

Evagoras Lanitis Cultural Centre – the Carob Mill.

ETHAL Art Space – Praxis Theatre. Two theatres owned by Limassol Municipality (semimunicipal theatre company).

House of Arts & Letters of the Coordinating Committee of Limassol Cultural Associations.

Exhibition and lecture hall.

Agios Athanasios Municipal Folk Art Museum.

Agios Athanasios Municipal Theatre.

Agios Athanasios Cultural Centre.

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Agios Tychonas Open-Air Theatre.

Yermasoyia Municipal Cultural Centre and Open-Air Theatre.

Polemidia Medical Museum.

Polemidia Municipal Theatre.

Mikri Salamina Sculpture Park. Open-air theatre, multi-purpose space.

Platanisteia Printmakinh Museum. Hambis School of Printmaking, Anogyra.

Parakentro. This not-for-profit cultural organisation was founded by Costas Cacoyannis (composer) and Pambos Kouzalis (author). Its members are noteworthy artists and creative individuals.

Parakentro hosts at no cost well-known and young artists from all over the world who take part in its concerts, seminars and art exhibitions and create with nature as their inspiration. Parakentro also operates as a publishing house, enabling talented young artists to publish and promote their work free from any third-party exploitation.

Cyprus Wine Museum, Erimi.

Various Art Galleries. (Morfi, Pegasus Zacharias, Rouan, etc.)

Panicos Mavrellis Cultural Foundation. Art space, exhibition hall and events venue, outdoor café-theatre.

Sport, organizations and official institutions GSO. The oldest sports association in Cyprus (founded in 1892) and the second oldest in the Greek-speaking world, it is a classical athletics association and has been a melting pot for track and field athletes in Cyprus with world champions and victors in European, Balkan and Greek games.

Sports Clubs and Teams. Limassol has dozens of sports clubs and teams involved in every Olympic and non-Olympic sport. It is home to three Division One football teams whose clubs also have basketball, volleyball and other sports teams.

“Lemesia”. The annual sports meeting organised by Limassol Municipality attracts international participation and also features arts events for young people.

Limassol International Marathon. A major annual event organised by Limassol Municipality and Olympia Gymnastic Association with internationally renowned athletes and mass public participation.

Cycle Races.

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Water Sports. Annual International Games and Sailing Regattas, Water Skiing, Canoe/Kayak races, Rowing and other water sports in the sea and the dams in the Limassol District.

Cyprus International Rally. This World Rally Championship event, which is the biggest event in the Cyprus sporting calendar, takes place in Limassol every year.

International Olympic Gymnastics Meetings.

Sports Venues: Golf Courses. The construction of a large number of golf courses is already under way with all the related services designed to high international specifications.

Tsirion Stadium. It holds 20,000 spectators and is used or football matches and other sports events as well as major concerts.

Palais des Sports. With a capacity of more than 6,000, this indoor arena is suitable for hosting sports, artistic and every other type of event.

Indoor basketball arenas. There are three of these for sports and other events.

Fitidio Athletic Center. Venue for public exercise and entertainment, it features walking paths, sports and recreation areas as well as a variety of activities.

Sailing Clubs. They have seaside clubhouses and water sports installations (Limassol, Kyrenia and Famagusta).

Yachting Centre.

Public Swimming Pools. There are two Olympic-size pools.

Cycle paths. Along the coastal road of Greater Limassol.

Palais des sports. Capacity than 6 000 seats, modern enclosed space suitable for sporting, artistic and other events.

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ΙV.

History of Limassol

The town of Lemesos (Limassol) is situated between the ancient towns of Amathus and Curium.

The English King Richard the Lionheart destroyed Amathus in 1191. Lemesos (Limassol) was probably built after Amathus had been ruined. However, the town of Lemesos (Limassol) was inhabited since the very old times. Graves that were found there date back to 2.000 B.C. and others date back to the 8th and 4th century B.C. These few remains that were left behind show that a small colonization must have existed which did not manage to develop and flourish.

Cyprus has been since ancient times part of

The ancient writers mention nothing about the foundation the history of Europe of the town. According to the Synod which took place in 451 B.C.; the bishop of Theodossiani Sotir as well as the bishops of Amathus and Arsinoe were involved in the foundation. Theodossiani is regarded the same as Lemesos (Limassol) was known later as Neapolis. The records of the 7th Synod (787) refer to it as the bishop‟s see. The town was known as Nemesos in the 10th century. Constantine Porfyrogennitos refers to the town by this name.

The history of Lemesos (Limassol) is largely known by the events of 1191 A.D. that put an end to the Byzantine dominion of Cyprus. The king of England, Richard the Lionheart, was travelling to the Holy Land in 1191. His fiancée Berengaria and his sister loanna, (Queen of Sicily), were also travelling on a different ship. Because of a storm, the ship with the queens arrived in Lemesos (Limassol). Isaac Comnenus, the Byzantine governor of Cyprus, was heartless and cruel, and hated the Latins very much. He did not allow the queens to get off the ship and did not even help them.

When Richard arrived in Lemesos (Limassol) and met Isaac Comnenus, he asked him to contribute to the crusade for the liberation of the Holy Land. While at the beginning Isaac had accepted, he later on refused to give any help.

Richard then chased him and beat him. Cyprus was therefore taken over by the British. Richard celebrated his marriage with Berengaria who had received the crown as queen of England in Cyprus. So, the Byzantine dominion in Cyprus came to an end.

A year later, in 1192 A.D. Cyprus was sold to the Templars, rich monks and soldiers whose aim was the protection of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The knights enforced high taxes, in order to put back the money that had been given for the purchase of Cyprus. This led to the revolt of the Cypriots. They demanded that they should get rid of the bond of the promise. Richard accepted their request and a new purchaser was found: Guy de Lusignan, a Frank, a Roman Catholic. Cyprus was thus handed over to the Frankish Dynasty of the Lusignan kings of the medieval Cypriot kingdom.

For a period of about three centuries 1192-1489, Lemesos (Limassol) enjoyed a remarkable prosperity. Cyprus was characterized by its great number of Latin bishops. This lasted until the occupation of Cyprus by the Turks in 1570 A.D. Latin battalions which established monasteries were settled down there.

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The settling down of merchants in Cyprus and particularly in Lemesos (Limassol) in the 13th century led to the financial welfare of its inhabitants. Its harbor as a center of transportation and commerce, contributed greatly to the financial and cultural development.

The King of Germany, Frederick II, urged by the Templars of Cyprus who were enemies of Ibelen, arrived in Lemesos (Limassol) and took over in the town in 1228. He then called John Ibelen to come before him, in order to discuss the plans against the Muslims. John Ibelen came before him accompanied by the under-aged King Eric and all the Templars of Cyprus. When Ibelen refused to cooperate, Frederick had no choice but to let him go. The German King took over in Lemesos (Limassol) and in other towns. He appointed his own governors but he finally left Cyprus. The forces of Frederick were finally beaten in the battle of 1229, which took place in Agirta, a village in the Kyrenia area, between the forces of Frederick and the troops of the Franks, which were led by John Ibelen.

Lemesos (Limassol) witnessed the attacks of the Mamelukes of Egypt. The harbor of Lemesos (Limassol) had become a refuge for the pirates who were ravaging the countries of the Eastern Mediterranean and were stealing the products of the Mohammedans. The lords were getting richer and richer because of the money that was given to them for their assistance to the pirates. Thus, a military force arrived in Lemesos (Limassol) in 1424, sent by the Mamelukes of Egypt. The Mamelukes devastated and burned Lemesos (Limassol). A year later, they invaded Cyprus again, this time with greater forces. They plundered Famagusta and Larnaca, and then arrived in Lemesos (Limassol) where without any difficulty they occupied the Castle, burned many places, plundered others and then returned to Cairo. The Mamelukes caused even greater destruction in Lemesos (Limassol) and other places in 1426. Janus, the king of Cyprus, was defeated by them in Chirokitia and was sent back to Cairo as a prisoner.

Cyprus was sold in 1489 A.D. to the town of Venice by the Cypriot Queen Catherine Cornaro. The Venetians were not interested in Cyprus. They were only interested in receiving the taxes and in exploiting the countryâ€&#x;s sources. They destroyed the Castle of Lemesos (Limassol) in 1539.

Travelers who visited Cyprus in the 16th century commented on the poor condition of the local population in the towns of Cyprus.

All the inhabitants of Cyprus were enslaved by the Venetians, and were obliged to pay a tribute of 1/3 of their income, whether this was part of their products of the land, e.g. wheat, wine, oil, or animals or of any other product.

The Turks invaded Cyprus in 1570-1571 and occupied it. Lemesos (Limassol) was conquered in July 1570 without any resistance. The Turks devastated and burned it. Descriptions of different visitors inform us that the town of Lemesos (Limassol) looked like a village with a considerable number of inhabitants.

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years of the Turkish domination, the intellectual standard of the Cypriots had declined. The lack of interest on the part of conquerors, the oppression and the high taxation were restraining factors for the intellectual development of the children. The church played an important role in the education of the country during the years 1754-1821. During those years new schools were set up in all the towns. Greek intellectuals used to teach Greek history, Turkish and French. The following schools operated in the town of Lemesos (Limassol): the Greek School which was established in 1819, the first public school which was established in 1841, the Girls‟ School which was established in 1861.

The British took over in Cyprus in 1878. The first British governor of Lemesos (Limassol) was Colonel Warren. He showed a particular interest in Lemesos (Limassol) and even from the very first days the condition of the town showed an improvement. The roads were cleaned, the animals were removed from the center, roads were fixed, trees were planted and docks were constructed for the loading and unloading of those ships that were embarked away from the shore. Lanterns for the lighting of the central areas were also installed in the I880. In 1912, electricity finally replaced the old lanterns.

From the very first years of the British occupation, a post office, a telegraph office and a hospital began to operate. In 1880 the first printing press started working. It was in this printing press that the newspapers «Alithia» and «Anagennisis» were published in 1897. The newspaper «Salpinx» was published at the same time.

At the end of the 19th century the very first hotels began to operate. Among these were «Europe» and «Amathus».

These changes that the British brought about contributed to the development of an intellectual and artistic life.

Schools, theaters, clubs, art galleries, music halls, sport societies, football clubs etc. were all set up and meant a great deal to the cultural life of Lemesos (Limassol).

The rise of the population birth rate during the late 19th and 20th c. (1878-1960) was 70%. The number of inhabitants was 6.131 in 1881, while in 1960 the number had risen to 43.593. The number of the Greek population was estimated at 37.478, while the Turkish population at 6.115.

Job opportunities concerned the cultivation of carob and citrus, wine, ceramic crafts, as well as the commerce and tourism developed by the port.

The Turkish-Cypriot inhabitants of Lemesos (Limassol) were transferred to the north of Cyprus in 1975 because of the Turkish invasion in Cyprus in 1974. Accordingly, many Greek-Cypriots who became refugees after they had fled from the north of Cyprus settled down in Lemesos (Limassol).

When Famagusta, one of the most important tourist areas of Cyprus was occupied by the Turkish troops, Lemesos (Limassol) rapidly expanded. Luxury hotels, restaurants and numerous places of entertainment were built, so that the town soon became a center of commerce.

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Europe's gate to the east, the south-eastern edge of the Mediterranean, Limassol is today a modern and progressive cosmopolitan metropolis of more than two hundred thousand inhabitants, composed of five geographically united municipalities and several large communities on the outskirts.

The ancient city of Amathus (old Limassol) is situated on the southern coast of Cyprus, about 7 km east of the town of Limassol. In the area of Amathus traces of human presence have been found since the Neolithic years.

There is no evidence of when the city of Amathus was founded.

Amathus: Acropolis

Amathus: Agora

Amathus : Ancient port

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V.

Limassol and Wine

Towards the end o the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century, travellers to Cyrus made special mention of the strong wine to be found in the Limassol district and, in particular, of Commandaria which was produced in the eponymous area west and northwest of Limassol and was much in demand in Europe.

In 1844, the oldest wine company in the city and in the whole of Cyprus, C. Haggipavlu & Sons, was founded (and located on the coastal road in 1872). Later, mainly after 1870, various tax and administrative changes, the operation of the Suez Canal and the disease that afflicted grapevines in France combined to create more favourable conditions for entrepreneurship in Limassol which, with 4,000-4,500 residents at the time, soon developed into a significant commercial centre. Wines were exported, some in Limassol ships, to Egypt, Asia Minor and elsewhere. The delivery, processing and barreling of wine took place near the port and this, in turn, led to the area near the seashore becoming the main place for the storage and trade of wine/vine products and it was to have a major effect on how the area later developed. Many buildings (which divided the city from the sea) were constructed, including stores for wine and other products, inns, small hotels, shops, coffee houses and workshops.

When British colonial rule started in 1878, Limassol was a very promising place which was already developing into the most European of all the island‟s cities, with some stone-built and mudbrick houses which, according to contemporary accounts by vistitors, gradually gained tiled roofs in place of the traditional flat ones.

Under the British, with the best possible conditions for employment and development, many local people purchased vineyards in the surrounding district and thus contributed to the growing and thriving production and export of wine and zivania. Exports played their role in the city‟s rapid and continuous progress while filtration and distillation methods improved with the importation of new equipment.

Between 1927 and 1929, the factories of KEOO (the Greek acronym for the Cyprus Wine & Spirits Company Ltd), later KEO, began operations. During World War II, in 1943, the Cyprus wine museum Popular Wine & Spirits Company of Limassol (named after its acronym LOEL) was founded as a public company while in 1947 ETKO and the Vine Products Distribution Cooperative (SODAP) were established. These major wineries remain to this day the largest producers of wine and other vine products in Cyprus.

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In conclusion, we may say that while today there is no visible influence of trade in vine products on the city‟s development, a good observer may easily take note of its past simply by taking a walk around the areas radiating outwards from the old port. Every year the Wine Festival brings to all its local and foreign visitors the spirit of a city that has matured to become Cyprus‟s wine city par excellence.

Major Wineries: KEO, ETKO, SODAP, LOEL Some Local Wineries: Kyperounda, Argyrides (Vasa), Vlasides (Kilani), Zampartas (Agios Amvrosios), Hadjiantonas (Parekklishia), Tsiakkas (Pelendri), Olympus (Omodos), Ktima Mallia, I.P. Gaia Oinotechniki (ecological wines) (Agios Amvrosios), Nicolaides (Anoygrya).

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Limassol’s Vision involves building the future based on its past achievements, its history and traditional values, and making the most of its significant role in linking Europe and the Mediterranean and, with Culture as a Compass, by way of balanced cultural, economic and social development, to maximize the prosperity and quality of life of its people.

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