Liverpool - European capital of culture?

Question

Been curious when i heard Liverpool was annouced as the euro capital of culture, not the first place that springs to mind. And then the recent government comment about places like liverpool and north towns being beyond revivial.

Answer 1

1. It is a designation that lasts for one year only, and shows recognition of a city's contribution to cultural heritage. It is not a statement that Liverpool is the best city in Europe for culture.

2. However, Liverpool is a great choice - it has an important cultural heritage:-

a) music - 1960s Merseybeat, plus: Echo & the Bunnymen, Teardrop Explodes, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, The Boo Radleys, The Farm, The Zutons etc.

b) sport - 2 great football teams, plus: Aintree/Grand National

c) architecture - Liver Building, 2 cathedrals

d) comedians - Freddie Starr, Alexei Sayle, Arthur Askey, Ken Dodd (hmm), Stan Boardman (double hmm)

e) TV sitcoms - Bread, Liver Birds

f) poetry - Liverpool Poets

g) history - transatlantic passenger service, slave trade