Brussels was chosen as EU capital due to its location between France, Germany and UK. Brussels hosted EU institutions from 1958 onwards. 1992 Edinburgh European Council finalized Brussels as EU capital status
Cultural Routes promote European shared culture and memory through networks. Program launched in 1987 by Council of Europe, not EU. Routes can be physical paths or cultural stakeholders' associations. Program extends beyond EU borders to North Africa and Middle East
European Council meetings started in 1975 as tri-annual gatherings. Minimum meetings increased from 4 to 6 per year between 1996-2007. Average of 7 meetings per year from 2008 to 2019. Since 2021, average of 8 meetings per year
Born in 1957 in Gdańsk, Poland, with Polish, German and Kashubian heritage. Graduated from University of Gdańsk in 1980, studying history. Grew up in frontier town with diverse ethnic backgrounds
Established as informal summit in 1975, formalised in 2009. Composed of heads of state/government, President, and Commission President. Current president is Antonio Costa, former Portuguese Prime Minister. Meets at least twice every six months in Brussels' Europa building
No official "President of Europe" title exists, but four institutions have presidents. European Council President since December 2024 (António Costa). European Commission President since December 2019 (Ursula von der Leyen). European Parliament President since January 2022 (Roberta Metsola)