Victoria Crowned European Capital of Culture 2031
The city of Victoria, located on the island of Gozo in Malta, has officially been designated as the European Capital of Culture for the year 2031. Known locally as Ir-Rabat, Victoria secured this prestigious title after a competitive process against the city of Birgu (Vittoriosa). The selection spanned approximately nine months and involved evaluations by EU experts alongside national authorities. Victoria's winning bid, titled 'Island of Islands,' envisions exploring the island through evocative Mediterranean themes of coastline, salt, and waves.
Competition Background and Significance
The contest for Malta’s European Capital of Culture began in October 2024. Birgu was eliminated during the November 2025 preliminary round, allowing Victoria to advance and ultimately claim the honor. It's noteworthy that Valletta, Malta’s capital on the main island near Gozo, previously held this distinction in 2018.
Victoria was founded in 1887 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. Its iconic landmark is the Citadel, a fortified medieval city perched atop a hill. The Citadel offers sweeping views across Gozo, making it a key attraction for visitors. Gozo itself is the smaller and more tranquil of Malta’s two main islands, separated from the main island by a short ferry ride.
"Victoria’s project will interpret the island through three Mediterranean symbols – the coast, salt, and waves."
Glenn Micallef
Samuel Azzopardi emphasized that the upcoming cultural revival will be guided by three principles: "slowness, care, and courage." These values highlight Victoria’s thoughtful and strategic approach to enriching its cultural scene and attracting visitors in the years ahead.
Being named a European Capital of Culture represents a major milestone for Victoria and Gozo. This recognition is expected to unlock fresh opportunities for cultural development and boost tourism, providing a substantial economic uplift. Ultimately, Victoria aims to emerge as a significant cultural hub in the Mediterranean, promoting the preservation and celebration of its unique heritage and traditions.