The decision was announced today by the evaluation panel. Read more about this capital on Ecocnews. In 2028, it will be France and the Czech Republic that will nominate the European Capital of Culture.

After an initial selection, four French cities are still in the running: Rouen, Bourges, Clermont-Ferrand, Montpellier.

A group of independent experts who assess applications, recommended České Budějovice from two short-listed Czech cities following a two-day meeting.

Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President of the European Commission, said: "It is a unique opportunity for a city and its surroundings to bring culture and Europe right to the heart of their communities. It is the chance for their inhabitants to discover the rich cultural diversity of our continent, and the common elements we share as Europeans.

The European Capitals of Culture exemplify the EU goal of creating a Union that brings people together around cherished common values, such as freedom of speech, rule of law, democracy and peace.

I hope that České Budějovice will harvest all the long-term cultural, economic and social benefits that the European Capital of Culture can bring".