Galway has been chosen as Europe’s Capital of Culture 2020.

The city and county will now receive European and Government funding to host cultural events throughout the year.

Limerick and The Three Sisters: Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford were both in the running for the title but lost out to Galway on the day.

Our capital Dublin, also took a shot at the title, but failed to make it onto the shortlist.

The city was chosen based on what it plans to offer tourists and locals throughout the year.

It is thought to be worth €170m to the winning city and county in terms of funding and tourism.

Disappointment for Limerick

Director of the Limerick 2020 bid for European Capital of Culture has said that the bid process has been a giant boost to the cultural re-awakening energising Limerick today.

Congratulating Galway on being selected as the successful bid for the 2020 designation, Mike Fitzpatrick said that though disappointed not to have been selected, Limerick’s cultural flame has been fuelled for decades to come by the experience.

“The 2020 European Capital of Culture bid has been an incredible experience for Limerick. After the highs of the National City of Culture programme in 2014, it kept our energies and vision very much focussed on the cultural advancement of Limerick. That has ensured a wonderful continuing expression, in all art forms, over the past two years or so.

“In decades to come, when we reflect on where the new Limerick came from, the record will prominently show how culture flourished and inspired the city and its people to do greater things.”