The programme for the "Rijeka - European Capital of Culture 2020" project was presented in that Croatian seaport on Wednesday evening, and next year, there will be over 600 cultural events including concerts exhibitions, plays and other activities and 250 artistic projects in that Adriatic city, which is one of the two European capital cities next year.

The official start of the programme that is being held under the slogan “The Port of Diversity” is on 1 February to coincide with the Rijeka Carnival.

Some of the exhibitions will include an exhibition of the works by Gustav Klimt and an exhibition on Rijeka’s past.

Opera stars Karita Mattila and Elina Garanca will also give concerts in Rijeka.

Mayor Vojko Obersnel said that Rijeka would present itself in the best light, describing Rijeka as an city open to everybody.

The European Capital of Culture is an initiative designed to highlight the richness and diversity of the artistic development of European cities as well as the common cultural features as a way of contributing to bringing European nations closer and enhancing their mutual understanding. Every year a city in two EU countries each is designated the European Capital of Culture and in 2020, along with Rijeka, the title is also be awarded to Galway, Ireland.