Maroneia-Şapçı municipality bids to become Mediterranean capital of culture and dialogue 2028

The Municipality of Maroneia-Sapes has submitted its candidacy to become the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2028 (MCCD), seeking to raise the profile of the Rodopi area internationally and highlight its distinctive historical and cultural identity.

The MCCD is an international initiative of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) and the Anna Lindh Foundation. Each year, two cities—one from the northern part of Europe and one from the Mediterranean region—are selected as focal points for culture, dialogue, cooperation and sustainable development.

Highlighting Rhodope’s cultural heritage
The Municipality of Maroneia-Şapçı is basing its candidacy on the area's rich historical and cultural heritage, the coexistence of different cultural traditions and its potential to serve as a bridge for communication and cooperation.

Local authorities say securing the title would provide an important opportunity not only for the municipality but also for the wider Rodopi area to strengthen its presence across the Euro-Mediterranean region.

The initiative aims to promote the area's cultural assets while supporting the development of thematic tourism and strengthening its international outreach.

Municipality coordinates candidacy
The Municipality of Maroneia-Şapçı has assigned the coordination of the candidacy to its Department of Planning, Organization, Information Technology and Transparency.

The department is responsible for coordinating the process and ensuring that the necessary conditions are met for the municipality's application.

If selected, Maroneia-Sapes would use the MCCD platform to promote its cultural identity, encourage intercultural dialogue and develop new opportunities for international cooperation and sustainable tourism.