Guernsey to take part in the 2027 European Year of the Normans
- 2027 will commemorate the 1000th anniversary of William the Conqueror's birth.
- A year-long cultural programme will include exhibitions, performances, and student exchanges.
- Guernsey aims to showcase its Norman heritage and European connections.
- People are encouraged to participate and contribute ideas.
- Funding is available for projects involving partners from Normandy.
Guernsey has announced its participation in the 'Millenium – 2027 European Year of the Normans'.
It is being held to mark the 1000th anniversary of William the Conqueror’s birth, and the Normandy Regional Council has planned an extensive cultural programme to explore the impact of the Normans across Europe.
The programme will encompass activities spanning Normandy, the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, Flanders, Southern Italy, Norway, and Denmark.
It promises to celebrate the enduring influence of Norman heritage on identity, innovation, and cultural exchange. Key components of the initiative will include exhibitions, contemporary art, music and performance, festivals, trails, student exchanges, and educational and sporting activities.
Deputy Paul Montague Education, Sport & Culture President, said: “Guernsey’s participation in ‘Millenium - 2027 European Year of the Normans’ is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the island’s deep-rooted connections with Normandy and wider Europe. This initiative not only honours our shared past but also looks to the future; encouraging collaboration, creativity and cultural exchange.”
He also said that schools in Guernsey will have opportunities to engage with the celebrations and connect with institutions in Normandy, contributing to the cultural dialogue between the regions.
Helen Glencross, Head of Culture & Heritage Services, added her enthusiasm for the participation: “We are delighted to be participating in ‘Millenium - 2027 European Year of the Normans’ and look forward to both honouring our shared history and inspiring new connections for our island across Europe.”
She encouraged local community members to engage with the programme and attend the upcoming workshops to explore contributions.
The States is coordinating the island’s response to this programme, inviting local individuals, artists, schools, organisations, and community groups to take part.
Workshops are scheduled for those interested in contributing ideas, taking place on 12 and 13 November at the Guernsey Museum.
To facilitate partnerships, organisations outside Normandy may apply for funding alongside eligible Normandy-based collaborators, with the next funding round opening in November and closing in January.
For further details on the initiative and how to get involved, Guernsey residents can visit the official website at gov.gg/yearofthenormans.
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