Photo by Naftalin9

The European Cities of Culture movement was launched in 1985 by Melina Mercouri, and has become more and more popular with every passing year. In 1999, Europe’s villages decided they wanted a piece of the action. Ever since, the EU has nominated European Cultural Villages every year—one for each member country—together with a “Cultural Village of Europe” titleholder for the year.

This year the title has been awarded to Palkonya, a settlement of 350 people in southern Hungary, famous for its protected buildings, beautiful natural scenery, and spicy red wine.

Each month, from May until October, the representatives of two different countries organise colourful programs: fairs, musical and dance performances, and children’s entertainment.

This year’s other European Cultural Villages are: Aldeburgh (UK), Bystré (Czech Republic), Kilinge Nōmme (Estonia), Kirchheim (Austria), Mellionec (France), Paxos (Greece), Pergine Valdarno (Italy), Porrúa (Spain), Schachdorf Ströbeck (Germany), Tommerup (Denmark), and Wijk aan Zee (Netherlands).

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