It is a tremendous honour to officially announce Granada’s bid to become European Capital of Culture 2031, under the slogan “Granada, tierra que inspira, conocimiento que transforma” (Granada — an inspiring city that transforms through knowledge).

Granada is a multicultural city that combines history and modernity, tradition and the future, craftsmanship and technology. Above all, it is a city of intertwining lives that seeks to build bridges that connect its history, origins and aspirations — especially with regard to the future that we wish to create together.

Working hand in hand with local associations, institutions, collectives, businesses and the cultural sector, we aspire to become European Capital of Culture 2031. With this shared goal in mind, and beyond the ECOC title, we are seeking a new opportunity for the development of our city.

Culture is our springboard for transformation, and the legacy we hope to leave will shape our city for a long time to come. Our candidacy is about much more than recognition; it is a strategic plan that will drive the sustainable and inclusive development of the city and province of Granada, with employment and opportunities at the top of the agenda.

We are excited to make this much-needed project a reality for a southern region that has long felt the effects of isolation. This initiative is also necessary to reinforce the values of a Europe which began to take shape right here, but which then began to drift away under the weight of history.

As an outward-looking city, we aim to enhance respect for all ways of thinking. In Granada, the array of cultures that have converged over the centuries will find a space for mutual understanding and coexistence — a place where we can respect each other’s diverse perspectives on life together.

We envisage a place where nature and sustainable practices help to protect our natural heritage, with special consideration given to clean air and the beauty of our landscapes.

Furthermore, we are committed to a living culture that goes beyond our monuments and rich heritage. Granada is a wellspring of creativity, with young and emerging talent that needs to be supported and recognised. And we can rely on this talent to help our city grow.

We aim to stand shoulder to shoulder with our University, harnessing all its knowledge and expertise to achieve our goal. In 2031, the UGR will celebrate its fifth centenary, and the European Capital of Culture project is the perfect way to acknowledge the institution’s outstanding achievement in attracting the largest number of Erasmus students in the European Higher Education Area.

In short, this project involves the entire city and province, uniting the City Council, University, Provincial Council, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Chamber of Commerce, and all of the associations, organisations and groups that make Granada what it is today. But above all, this is your project, and we need everyone to get involved. After all, it is through small efforts that we can accomplish major, long-lasting achievements. Whether you are a local resident, visitor, intellectual, creator, or domestic or Erasmus student at the UGR — we are all part of this dream, united by a common goal.

We have months left to turn our bid into a European reality. By doing so, we will secure a future in which culture is the key to unlocking the riches of a remarkable city that is eager to once again open its arms and forge a shared vision with Europe. “Granada 2031” is more than just a year — it is a space filled with hope. And I encourage everyone who loves our city to lend their support to our bid.

Granada — European Capital of Culture 2031. Knowledge, Inspiration, Transformation.

Marifrán Carazo

Mayor of Granada