EcocNews: New Online Publication Dedicated to European Capitals of Culture Launches in Matera

EcocNews, an English-language online newspaper exclusively covering European and National Capitals of Culture, has been launched in Matera, Italy. Founded by Serafino Paternoster, former press office coordinator for Matera 2019, and directed by Mariateresa Cascino with editorial support from Caterina Venece, the publication aims to fill an information gap that has persisted over 35 years of the European Capital of Culture program. The platform is structured into four sections: News, Capitals, Events, and Ecoc of the year, which currently highlights Galway and Rijeka for 2021. It also features in-depth coverage of future European Capitals, including Gorizia and Nova Gorica for 2025. EcocNews aspires to serve as a communication support tool for all Capitals of Culture, hosting an archive of both designated cities and those that have applied for the title, ensuring their work is preserved. The European Capital of Culture initiative was launched in 1985 by the Council of the European Union on the proposal of Melina Merkouri, then Greek Minister of Culture, with Athens being the first city to hold the title.