Culture has a cutting edge role in the present-day world, both regarding economic and social point of view. Although the cultural sector is often criticised by being ‘elitist’, there is an increasing intention of stakeholders to make culture accessible for everybody. Pulsing cultural life is an important dimension of attractive cities attracting young talents, and improving locals’ quality of life. Availability of cultural products and services is an important element of city branding indices, and of city rankings. The European Union puts also a great emphasis on making culture more accessible, the European Capital of Culture initiative (with more than 60 cities awarded) defines culture in the broader sense enabling culture more accessible to all social groups. More and more smaller cities and regions being European Capital of Culture implement strategies to overcome geographical barriers.

The main goal of the session is to share research results unveiling the role of culture oriented developments in regional development. From the place point of view, contributions addressing European Capital of Culture cities or regions, furthermore rural areas are welcome. Conceptual, theoretical, and methodological contributions, furthermore best practices, case studies can provide a valuable input for the discussion that seek to address the question of culture can support regional development, and by that contribute to a more sustainable future in rural areas.