European capital of culture: residents' perception of social benefits and costs – Maribor 2012 case study

Abstract

This study assessed Maribor residents’ attitudes towards social impacts of the European capital of culture, using FSIAS scale. The results showed that residents perceived more social benefits than social costs of the event. They agreed that the event had positive impacts primary on the promotion of Slovenia, as well as on community cultural life and image in general, which is also consistent with the purpose and the aims of the event. In residents’ opinion the event did not cause any negative impacts. The results provide residents, event organizers, and local authorities with important community perceptions pertaining to the event.

Keywords

• slovenia
• geography of tourism
• events
• european capital of culture
• social impacts