Urban Identity and Image of the City Pilsen as the European Capital of Culture 2015

7th Interdisciplinary Conference of the University Network of the European Capitals of CultureMarseille, October 17-18, 2013

Jiri Jezek & Jiri Preis, Department of GeographyThe University of West BohemiaPlzen, Czech Republic

Le Capitale Europeenne de la Culture 2015

Plzen:- Founded in 1295- West Bohemia, region bordering with

Germany- 170.000 inhabitans

Famous products

Summer research

• Generally: How tourists view Plzen? • 427 questionnaires during summer months• Interviewed both Czech (302) and foreign

visitors (125)• Where: railway station; large public beach;

brewery visitors; main square• Big tribute to our students who were involved

Structure of foreign respondents (125)

Reason of the visit?

How long do you plan to stay?

How long do you plan to stay (age structure)?

How old and how long?

Do you know Plzen to be ECoC in 2015?

Do you know Plzen to be ECoC in 2015?

Are you going to visit Plzen in 2015?

Are you going to visit Plzen in 2015?

Visitors to Plzen

• Mostly young people between 20-40 years• Staying 2-3 days• Entertainment and recreation

• Challenge: draw older generation and keep them in Plzen for more than 1 day

Will you also come to Plzen in 2015?