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News, February 2005Zaragoza and Bilbao chosen for upcoming world events10 January First Zaragoza, with an Expo, now Bilbao with an ocean race, have been chosen for upcoming world events: 5-Oceans 2006 and Expo 2008. Expo16 December. Zaragoza has beaten several other European cities to be awarded this event. The theme will be 'Water and Sustainable Development'. Dates: 14th June to 13th September; numbers involved: over 7 million visitors expected. The event will be held on a wind in the river Ebro 2 km from the city centre. In 1908 Zaragoza held its last Expo (of 3) on the centenary of the heroic defense of the city during the War of Independence (against Napoleon), an event celebrated also by the French! So this will be the 200th anniversary of the victory. Together with the arrival of the AVE High speed rail link and new airport and road schemes, Zaragoza is a rapidly growing and modern city and hub for transport links between Madrid, th Basque Country and Catalonia, as well as France. Madrid and Barcelona will both be just 75 minutes by train. As capital of Aragón, it is also a historical place and has an immense basilica in honour of Spain's patron virgin, the 'Virgin of the Pillar'. The legend goes that Mary met St. James here on the banks of the river, as both were evangelising Spain. While Catholics will undoubtedly want to celebrate this event, Evangelicals will also take advantage to 'meet while evangelising Spain'! 5 OceansThis round the world race will start and end in Bilbao. The port facilities are being renewed and extended to welcome the ocean racers. The start date is November 2006 and it is expected to last about 4 months, thus ending early 2007. This 'win' comes on the heels of the award of the next Americas cup to Valencia. This will take place in 2007, with the 5 Oceans a worthy 'marathon' warm-up for this regatta equivalent of the 100 metres for ocean racers. More on the Americas cup: http://www.valencia2007.com/english/index.html |