Istanbul aims to be culture capital

Tuesday January 29th , 2008

The Turkish city of Istanbul is aiming to become the European Capital of Culture in 2010, it has been reported.

According to Today's Zaman, the government is diverting considerable sums of money in order to restore and conserve sites of local, cultural and artistic interest.

This should ensure that the city's bid to gain the title in two years time will be as strong as possible.

Commenting on the plans, culture and tourism minister Ertugrul Gunay said plans to preserve and restore many historic locations were already underway.

He added that he was determined to make Istanbul the European Capital of Culture in 2010.

The British city of Liverpool currently holds the title and has significantly raised its international profile as a result.

Furthermore, the region has been able to attract thousands of additional visitors and boost its economy.

Similar benefits may come to Istanbul if it is successful in its bid to secure the title.