The city of Guimarães’ candidature for European Capital of Culture in 2012 began in October 2006, and was formally completed in May 2009.
October 2006
Nomination by the Portuguese government, under a transitional scheme, of the city of Guimarães for European Capital of Culture in 2012;
December 2007
Submission of Guimarães’ application to the European Capital of Culture Selection Panel;
23rd of April, 2008
First meeting of the Selection Panel in Brussels, who accepted Guimarães’ application, recommending additional information in terms of medium and long-term impacts;
5th of November, 2008
Submission of amended initial application to the Selection Panel;
December 2008
The Selection Board acknowledges the quality of Guimarães’ project, and recommends its designation as European Capital of Culture 2012 to the European Commission;
12th of May, 2009
The European Council of Ministers of Culture designates Guimarães as European Capital of Culture 2012, together with Maribor (Slovenia);
14th of July, 2009
Public unveiling of Guimarães 2012 European Capital of Culture.