"Cities of Culture examines the role of the Western city as the scene of staged cultural events over the last 150 years. Adopting a lively comparative perspective, it highlights the development of international festivals since London's Great Exhibition of 1851. Making extensive use of case studies and illuminating examples, it offers thought-provoking insight into the material and symbolic significance of international festivals in urban affairs." "Cities of culture will appeal to students of cultural history, urban and cultural geography, specialists in arts and heritage, events management and anyone with an interest in the development of the contemporary Western city."--Jacket.