Douzelage celebrates 35 years of friendships

On Monday May 20th 1991 an historic meeting took place in Granville, France. Representatives from twelve towns across Europe gathered with a shared ambition — to create a unique network that would foster friendship, cultural exchange, understanding and cooperation between communities throughout Europe.

From that meeting, the Douzelage network was born.

Today, Wednesday 20th May 2026, Douzelage proudly celebrates 35 years since that landmark moment — marking more than three decades of international partnership, community spirit and lasting friendships across Europe.

What began with twelve member towns has grown into a vibrant network spanning countries and cultures from across the continent. Over the past 35 years, thousands of people have participated in exchanges, festivals, sporting events, youth projects, educational programmes, artistic collaborations and cultural celebrations through the Douzelage connection.

The first Douzelage meeting takes place in Granville, France.

The organisation’s name itself combines the French words “douze” and “jumelage”, meaning “twelve twinnings”, reflecting its origins and founding vision of bringing European communities together at a local level.

Throughout its history, Douzelage has promoted the values of friendship, peace, democracy, cooperation and cultural understanding. Long before social media and digital communication connected the world instantly, Douzelage was creating real human connections between towns, families, students, artists, volunteers and local organisations across borders.

Today, the network continues to thrive through the dedication of local committees, volunteers, municipal representatives and citizens who believe in the importance of European friendship and collaboration.

The original “Founding Fathers” of Douzelage pictured in 1991

The signature page from the original charter

As Douzelage marks this significant anniversary, member towns across Europe are reflecting on the countless memories, partnerships and personal connections formed since 1991 — while also looking ahead to the future and the next generation of European cooperation.

Speaking on the anniversary, Douzelage President Shane Smyth described the network as “a living example of Europe at its best — built not through politics alone, but through people, communities and shared experiences.”

Thirty-five years after that first historic meeting in Granville, the spirit of Douzelage remains as strong as ever.

Here’s to 35 years of friendship — and many more to come.

Attendees at the most recent General Meeting (the 49th) in Preveza, Greece in October 2025