The project - originating from historical research and cultural curiosity – aims at representing a precious leitmotif for the past, the present and the future, in the belief that mutual knowledge may enrich human relations, helping us to look at the future in a wider and freer perspective.
The Turks in Europe, in fact, while echoing a past characterised by conflicts, also refers to the present attempt to create a solid basis for coexistence and to a future where both entities share more than economic interests.
As for the past, cultural curiosity prevails. Although it is vaguely heard by many but known by few, the history of the Turks in Europe represents a fascinating and crucial chapter in the political and social development of the whole of the continent.
As for the present, the project points to the developments taking place in Europe, Turkey and Friuli, a region that, after the enlargement of the European Union, has become more than the new geographical centre of the Old Continent.
The future takes shape with Turkey aspiring to join the EU and the countries belonging to the Old Continent taking concrete steps to achieve peace and coexistence among all people.

THE TURKS IN EUROPE, from June 30th until October 22nd 2006, is an initiative promoted by the Autonomous Region Friuli Venenzia Giulia and the City of Palmanova in association with the Italian and Turkish governments and the Turkish Embassy in Italy. The event is organised by Associazione Europa Cultura with the artistic direction of Gianpaolo Carbonetto and the organizational co-ordination of Paola Sain and Daniela Volpe.