In Nova Gorica and Gorica, the second peak of EPK is underway
Nova Gorica – The traditional Friendship March with the slogan “2 cities, 1 heart” began on May 1st in Nova Gorica and Gorizia as the March for Europe. This ten-day celebration of culture, sports, and community is the second of four mass events of this year’s European Capital of Culture (EPC) 2025 Nova Gorica-Gorizia.
At the outset, the participants of the Friendship March were addressed by the mayor of the Slovenian city of Nova Gorica Samo Turel and the representative of the Italian Gorizia Silvana Romano. According to Turel, the march revived the tradition and memory of the time when the national border cut through and divided the two cities at the Europe Square.
Romano highlighted the long-term vision of the mayors regarding cross-border cooperation. In her opinion, such events demonstrate that peace can be achieved despite wars and conflicts.
According to the organizers, between 3,000 and 3,500 people participated in the cross-border march, including hikers from the Italian city of Padua, the Austrian city of Klagenfurt, the German city of Chemnitz, and Belgium.
The Friendship March marks the beginning of the second of four mass events of the EPC – the March for Europe.
Until May 10th, numerous events will take place, including Borderless Basketball, Borderless Football, children’s creative workshops “Childhood Can,” a literary-dance event in the dome of Ingeborg Bachmann with writer Maja Haderlap and dancer Leonie Humitsch, and the opening of the sound installation “Tree Orchestra” in Rafut Park.
On May 8th, the Day of Borderless Festivals will also take place, which combines the Craft and Entrepreneurship Festival, Flavors Without Borders, the Rose Festival, the Amateur Culture Festival, and the announcement of the winner of the Entrepreneurial Wine 2025 competition. (May 1st)
