České Budějovice
Czech Republic
A journey from core values to long-term impact. An environment where culture can flourish. This is the (PERMA)CULTURE of České Budějovice ECoC 2028.
In 2028, České Budějovice and the entire South Bohemian Region will become part of a unique European project. Being awarded the title of European Capital of Culture (ECoC) represents an extraordinary opportunity to strengthen the local cultural ecosystem, support artists and organizers, improve the quality of life for residents across generations, and open the city to new visitors from Czechia and abroad.
Within the framework of České Budějovice 2028 as ECoC, the concept of (Perma)culture is reflected in three basic principles: Care, Connect, and Create. These principles aim to fulfill the three key objectives of the project.
1. The openness of the project and the opportunity for everyone who wants to be part of the European Capital of Culture to get involved – whether through creative participation, community projects, educational activities, or volunteering – with an emphasis on accessibility and inclusion across social groups.
2. Sustainable implementation of the project with a view to the future after 2028, supporting innovation in regional culture and minimizing the environmental impact of the project.
3. Transforming the perception of České Budějovice – from a regional center to a self-confident European cultural metropolis that contributes to the development of tourism and strengthens the international presentation of the city and the entire South Bohemian Region.
ECOC
České Budějovice is the European Capital of Culture 2028
České Budějovice won the title of European Capital of Culture in 2023 in a national competition thanks to its long-term vision for the development of cultural offerings and infrastructure in the city and its original concept for the title year based on the concept of (Perma)culture. This approach does not view culture as a one-off event, but as a living and sustainable ecosystem. Although permaculture is most often associated with agriculture, its values can naturally be applied to culture, architecture, education, technology, and community life.
The Organization
www.budejovice2028.euČeské Budějovice – Evropské hlavní město kultury 2028
České Budějovice European Capital of Culture 2028 coordinates the preparation and delivery of the city’s program as a European Capital of Culture, not only for 2028 but also beyond. It works with local institutions, artists, communities, and international partners to develop cultural projects, events, and long-term initiatives that strengthen the city’s cultural life and international visibility.
Who represents the city
Karolína previously worked in strategic planning, building and maintaining international relations at the Czech Academy of Sciences. In České Budějovice 2028, she was responsible for international relations and subsequently took on the position of executive director, where she is responsible for the overall running of the organization.
Contact: karolina.raabova@budejovice2028.cz
Anna, together with the Artistic Council, the panel of programme curators, and partner institutions, develops the ECoC programme to ensure it aligns with the concept of (Perma)culture, maintains artistic quality, and fulfils strategic goals. Anna gained most of her professional experience at the Arts Institute (now the National Institute for Culture), first as part of the Prague Quadrennial team and later in the Creative Europe – Culture office.
Contact: anna.horejsi@budejovice2028.cz
Since 2017, Matěj has worked as the chief curator and later the head of programming for the Signal Festival. He left this prestigious role at the end of summer 2021 to fully support the preparations for České Budějovice’s bid to become the European Capital of Culture. Within the České Budějovice 2028 project, he is responsible for programme strategy as well as the leadership of the programme department, including project managers and the relevant units.
Contact: matej.vlasanek@budejovice2028.cz
Petr works in the ECoC team, where he is responsible for monitoring and evaluation the long-term impacts of the project, developing the cultural sector through educational and networking activities, and fostering collaboration with European partners. Petr founded and led Creative Prague for four years – an organization responsible for the development of cultural and creative industries in the City of Prague. He is a co-author of the Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries in the Czech Republic and the current State Cultural Policy of the Czech Republic.
Contact: petr.perinka@budejovice2028.cz
Experienced cultural manager with over 20 years of practice in education, cultural programming, and international cooperation. Currently leading international partnerships for the České Budějovice 2028 – European Capital of Culture project. Strong background in EU-funded programmes (Erasmus+), strategic development, and cross-sector collaboration. Aspiring to build sustainable partnerships, facilitate intercultural dialogue, and manage complex projects with European impact.
Contact: katerina.kubesova@budejovice2028.cz
Contact
Nádražní 118/6, České Budějovice, 37001 Czech Republic
