For Salamanca, the first task was to forge a reputation beyond that of its rich architectural heritage and of its university. Referring to this prestigious institution, Salamanca has styled itself "a city of thought, meetings and knowledge". Focusing on music, theatre and dance, its programme was intended to combine its past and present, projecting them both onto the national, European and international stage. The programme included 115 theatre and dance performances, a rich cycle of baroque operas with 8 works being staged, around 100 concerts, 52 exhibitions, and more.

Salamanca has attracted particular attention by developing new infrastructures. It was made a World Heritage Site in 1998, and has also built a new Scenic Arts Centre and a multipurpose hall seating 6 000. A whole series of buildings have also been renovated and given new functions, such as the Liceo theatre and the former prisons, converted into exhibition halls, workshops and a library.

Source: Official Site of DG EAC (EC)

http://ec.europa.eu/culture/our-programmes-and-actions/doc768_en.htm