Dear members of the cultural organizations, associations, and creative groups of Rhodes,
The Municipality of Rhodes is undertaking the historic initiative to officially bid for the title of “Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2028,” a leading international institution organized by the Union for the Mediterranean and the Anna Lindh Foundation.
The “Mediterranean Capitals of Culture & Dialogue” (Mediterranean Capitals of Culture & Dialogue) is an initiative of the Union for the Mediterranean and the Anna Lindh Foundation, established in 2022 by the foreign ministers of 43 member states. Under this initiative, two cities from different shores of the Mediterranean are selected each year to implement an annual program of cultural, socioeconomic, and sports activities. Its fundamental objective is to highlight the shared Euro-Mediterranean identity and cultural heritage, to strengthen intercultural dialogue, and to promote sustainable local development through the active participation of civil society.
Our goal is to reposition Rhodes on the map of the Mediterranean—not merely as a premier destination, but as a timeless crossroads of culture, creativity, and peaceful coexistence.
To achieve this, we need the support of all those who create and express themselves in Rhodes. A key part of our candidacy is the belief that the proposal must be built by incorporating the voices, ideas, and strengths of the local civil society.
Given that the time remaining until the submission of the final application (August 31) is extremely tight, we invite you to an urgent, open meeting for consultation and co-creation of the program.
Through an interactive exercise to be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the New Wing of the Nestorideion Melathron at the Museum of Modern Greek Art of the Municipality of Rhodes, we will discuss with you the central philosophy and narrative of Rhodes’s candidacy dossier, the integration of your own planned or new initiatives for 2028 under the “umbrella” of the Mediterranean Capital program, and, most importantly, we will incorporate your input into the final proposal.
This bid is a national effort and a tremendous opportunity for our region.
Please confirm your attendance or that of your organization’s representative by Tuesday, August 18, using the form provided: https://forms.gle/MJxQ7Jk7gwz4iqvR6.
Sincerely,
Efstathios Manousakis
Deputy Mayor for Culture, Municipality of Rhodes