An unprecedented mobilization
Since March 2024, more than 5,000 people—citizens, artists, associations, institutions, businesses—have come together to build this bid. Two years of intense collective work, driven by passion and a shared desire to create something meaningful for Namur, its province, and far beyond.
As Laura Latour, the project commissioner, puts it:
“You don’t need the European Capital label to develop meaningful projects. What truly matters is the strong legacy we’re leaving behind for the region.”
Confluences: an ambitious artistic vision
At the heart of Namur 2030 was a central concept: Confluences. Inspired by the meeting of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, this symbol became a metaphor for a city where different ideas, cultures, and energies can meet, challenge, and transform one another.
Three main themes shaped the artistic programme:
Past / Future: blending heritage with innovation, tradition with technology, memory with imagination.
Local / Global: anchoring the project in the territory while embracing a European outlook.
Tensions / Attentions: giving voice to the margins, creating common ground, and putting art in the service of care and solidarity.
More than 20 artistic projects embodied this vision, tackling topics ranging from folklore and climate change to digital culture, food systems, and collective memory.
More than a bid: a movement
Namur 2030 was an invitation to turn dialogue and connection into a celebration. At a time when social and identity-based divisions are deepening, the project aimed to turn Namur into a laboratory for cultural democracy and shared conviviality.
And this momentum has already crossed borders. From Gembloux to Dinant, Lublin to Kiruna, many European partners have shown excitement and curiosity about joining the movement.
Reactions full of pride and gratitude
For Charlotte Bazelaire, acting mayor of Namur:
“The disappointment is real, but so is the immense pride in what we’ve achieved together. This isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of a movement that will continue to make our city and its culture shine.”
Annick Castiaux, president of Namur 2030 ASBL and beyond, adds:
“This project brought together people who rarely had the chance to collaborate. We’re going to keep building on that momentum. Culture will continue to be a cornerstone of our society and a powerful driver of Confluences.”
What’s next?
In the coming weeks, the Namur 2030 team will pass on all the work and outcomes to the City and Province’s cultural departments, ensuring that nothing is lost and every seed planted has the chance to grow.
The Namur 2030 journey isn’t over—it’s simply evolving. Because culture will remain at the heart of our shared future.
