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CULTURE 12 maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 21 FEBRUARY 2024 Gozo recommended for title of 2026 European region of gastronomy Members of the international observing food preparation and tasting various delicacies THE island of Gozo has been nominated for the prestigious Award of European Region of Gastronomy 2026 by the In- ternational Institute of Gas- tronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism (IGCAT). This achievement marks a significant milestone in Gozo's culinary journey and reaffirms its status as a vi- brant island destination at the heart of the Mediterra- nean. The culmination of months of diligent effort and collab- oration between various key Gozitan stakeholders spear- headed by the Gozo Region- al Council, Gozo's successful bid for the European Region of Gastronomy Award is a testament to the island's rich eclectic gastronomic heritage, innovative culinary scene, and unwavering com- mitment to sustainability. Gozo underwent a rigorous evaluation process this week conducted by the IGCAT Ju- ry, following the submission of a Bid Book in December 2023, which highlighted Gozo's distinctive gastro- nomic identity and its vision for sustainable growth. The jury members ob- served Gozitan life with its cultural and food identi- ties; they experienced food traditions from small-scale goat milk farming, ġbejniet and Gozitan ftira-making, to large-scale tomato process- ing and innovation technol- ogies, also for international export. The five international judg- es also explored the intrinsic link between food and reli- gion through the transition from Carnival to Lent and Holy Week gastronomic tra- ditions. They also explored Gozo's unique cultural her- itage sites such as the Ġgan- tija Temples and the Ta' Pinu National Shrine. The island's vibrant food culture and evident strong social cohesion, coupled with its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, cap- tured the hearts and pal- ates of the evaluation panel. The process undertaken for this Award augurs well for Gozo's upcoming bid later this year for the European Capital of Culture 2031. The jury commented that "the exceptional food and hospitality found in Gozo, the quality of local products, commitment to traditional methods of food production, the culture and indeed har- mony of cultures, arts and crafts make Gozo's applica- tion extremely strong." Samuel Azzopardi, Pres- ident of the Gozo Region, said that Gozo has long been known for its rich gastro- nomic and cultural heritage. "This prestigious Award is a testament to our dedica- tion to preserving our culi- nary traditions, promoting innovation while remaining authentic, and fostering sus- tainable growth within the gastronomy sector," he said. "We are immensely proud to be recommended for the European Region of Gas- tronomy Award 2026. We have every expectation and will continue to persevere in our journey to obtain the Award in June 2024" The awarding of the Euro- pean Region of Gastronomy title to Gozo will be a cause for celebration not only for the island's residents but will also shine a spotlight on the island for gastronomy enthusiasts and travellers worldwide. As Gozo pre- pares to embark on this ex- citing gastronomic journey, stakeholders, communities, and visitors alike, are invit- ed to join in the celebration and experience the island's culinary treasures. 23 projects and pro- grammes designed to culti- vate, celebrate and elevate Gozo's gastronomic identity will be implemented in the years leading up to 2026, promising a strong legacy beyond the Award year. For more information about Gozo's designation as the European Region of Gas- tronomy 2026, please visit regjunghawdex.com/euro- p e a n - r e g i o n - o f - g a s t r o n o - my-2026-bid/