● LIVEECB RATE 2.4%·EUR/USD 1.1622·EUR/GBP 0.8590·BRUSSELS 15°C — OVERCAST·BOND YIELDS ARE SURGING GLOBALLY BUT WHY AREN’T EQUITIES FALLING?·FROM GIANT TVS TO 'JAMES BOND GLASSES': TCL'S VISION FOR THE FUTURE·BARDELLA SIGNS PACT WITH FARAGE TO STOP SMALL BOAT CROSSINGS 'FOREVER'·SENIOR EU OFFICIALS RETIERATE NEED FOR NEW EUROPE-WIDE TAXES IN NEXT BUDGET·PASSPORT FOR A NEWBORN: BIRTH TOURISM AS PART OF RUSSIA'S NEW EMIGRATION·INSIDE THE QUIET LUXURY REVIVAL OF THE VENICE LIDO – HOME TO THE GLITTERING FILM FESTIVAL·WEEK 38 · N°260·● LIVEECB RATE 2.4%·EUR/USD 1.1622·EUR/GBP 0.8590·BRUSSELS 15°C — OVERCAST·BOND YIELDS ARE SURGING GLOBALLY BUT WHY AREN’T EQUITIES FALLING?·FROM GIANT TVS TO 'JAMES BOND GLASSES': TCL'S VISION FOR THE FUTURE·BARDELLA SIGNS PACT WITH FARAGE TO STOP SMALL BOAT CROSSINGS 'FOREVER'·SENIOR EU OFFICIALS RETIERATE NEED FOR NEW EUROPE-WIDE TAXES IN NEXT BUDGET·PASSPORT FOR A NEWBORN: BIRTH TOURISM AS PART OF RUSSIA'S NEW EMIGRATION·INSIDE THE QUIET LUXURY REVIVAL OF THE VENICE LIDO – HOME TO THE GLITTERING FILM FESTIVAL·WEEK 38 · N°260·
Independent European journalism — politics, power, technology and public life
Brussels · Europe
N°260 · Week 38

The Debate.eu

Thursday, 17 September 2026
Read across Europe
§ Section · 59 stories

Culture

Reporting and analysis on culture from across Europe and beyond — updated through the day.

Newest first
  1. 01CULTURE04 September 2026

    Inside the quiet luxury revival of the Venice Lido – home to the glittering film festival

    The island of beaches and pine forests is seeing its historic hotels revamped and a new property open.

    By Rebecca Ann Hughes
    16:48 CET
  2. 02CULTURE04 September 2026

    Ladies Only: Afghan pop star Aryana Sayeed takes on Taliban with European tour

    Aryana Sayeed, one of Afghanistan’s biggest pop stars, is kicking off a women-only European tour, using her platform to bring Afghan women together and speak out for women’s rights.

    By Tokunbo Salako
    15:50 CET
  3. 03CULTURE04 September 2026

    Travelling to Europe? EES border checks are changing from 6 September

    Industry experts are concerned the removal of the Entry/Exit System’s temporary flexibilities will see border chaos return.

    By Rebecca Ann Hughes
    13:34 CET
  4. 04CULTURE04 September 2026

    Sweet-stealing capitalists and the definition of kissing: The 2026 Ig Nobel award winners

    The annual awards highlight strange, funny and thought-provoking research. This year's ceremony took place in Europe, with “fungi” as the theme of the 36th edition.

    By David Mouriquand
    11:13 CET
  5. 05CULTURE04 September 2026

    The Debate's Film of the Week: 'Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma'

    Jane Schoenbrun's third feature film in their Screen Trilogy is a fever dream of fear, desire and blood-soaked release.

    By Amber Louise Bryce
    07:37 CET
  6. 06CULTURE04 September 2026

    Budva travel guide: How Montenegro's dazzling riviera town is winning over Europe

    Budva’s medieval old town, its beaches, nightlife and sites such as Sveti Stefan are turning Montenegro’s coast into a rising Adriatic destination, but the tourism boom is already revealing the challenges the country will have to confront.

    07:00 CET
  7. 07CULTURE03 September 2026

    Former French President Hollande publishes new book with plan for France, but remains undecided about running

    Former French President Hollande published his newest book on Thursday, laying out 80 policy proposals.

    By Estelle Nilsson-Julien
    19:27 CET
  8. 08CULTURE03 September 2026

    Remembering Gloria Steinem: A life in powerful quotes and witticisms

    Gloria Steinem, the feminist trailblazer, writer and activist who helped define the modern women’s movement in the US, has died at 92.

    By David Mouriquand
    14:37 CET
  9. 09CULTURE03 September 2026

    Gloria Steinem, feminist icon, writer and pioneering journalist, dies aged 92

    Gloria Steinem, the feminist trailblazer, writer and activist who helped define the modern women’s movement in the US, has died at 92.

    By David Mouriquand
    12:43 CET
  10. 10CULTURE03 September 2026

    ‘Even I can’t mess this up’: Behind the lens in Iceland with the ‘really bad photographer'

    What happens when Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes meet the ‘world’s worst photographer’?

    By Fakhriya M. Suleiman
    12:21 CET
  11. 11CULTURE03 September 2026

    The Killers’ hit ‘Mr Brightside’ continues to break records and reaches 520 weeks in the UK Chart

    More than 20 years since its release, this song remains the indie rock anthem that just won’t go away...

    By David Mouriquand
    12:03 CET
  12. 12CULTURE03 September 2026

    Cassandra Wilson, the celebrated Grammy Award-winning jazz singer, dies aged 70

    Cassandra Wilson, known for her deep, moody and genre-bending contralto, was one of the most influential American jazz vocalists of the last 40 years.

    By David Mouriquand
    09:09 CET
  13. 13CULTURE03 September 2026

    Is coach travel underrated? Here are five journeys in Europe to take

    Once seen as an old-fashioned way to travel, coach holidays are enjoying a revival.

    By Saskia O'Donoghue
    07:01 CET
  14. 14CULTURE03 September 2026

    From flamenco to punk: Granada launches Neorama, festival of young talent

    From 3 to 5 September, Granada hosts Neorama, a travelling festival for young talent, with 40 concerts in jazz, classical, rock, punk and electronic music.

    By Lucia Blasco
    06:00 CET
  15. 15CULTURE02 September 2026

    Frecciarossa starting tests for new Rome and Milan high-speed rail links to Munich

    Trial runs of Frecciarossa trains in Germany and Austria are paving the way for high-speed links between Rome, Milan and Munich.

    By Lisa Duso
    18:38 CET
  16. 16CULTURE02 September 2026

    Venice Film Festival: Clooney, conflicts and competition dominate as ceremonies begin

    Awards, artificial intelligence, conflicts and climate change. Much of the opening talk at the start of the 83rd Venice Film Festival has revolved around geopolitics, propaganda and the future of cinema.

    By Tokunbo Salako
    16:17 CET
  17. 17CULTURE02 September 2026

    Where is the best bar in Europe? It’s in Budapest according to a new ranking

    From Budapest’s famous ruins to centuries-old Belgian boozers and wonderfully eccentric drinking dens, these are the European bars where atmosphere, character and local culture matter more than polish, according to a new ranking.

    By Saskia O'Donoghue
    15:31 CET
  18. 18CULTURE02 September 2026

    Hope, Dopamine and whatever 'Perfecth' means: The Debate’s Fall music preview

    The Debate looks ahead to the last four months of 2026 and picks the hotly anticipated albums you won’t want to miss.

    By David Mouriquand
    15:16 CET
  19. 19CULTURE02 September 2026

    Tenerife vs Lanzarote: How the two popular Canary Islands compare for a holiday

    Both islands offer year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches and volcanic landscapes, but Tenerife and Lanzarote have very different personalities.

    By Saskia O'Donoghue
    07:01 CET
  20. 20CULTURE01 September 2026

    GPHG 2026: Our favourite luxury timepieces vying for top watch industry awards

    The Grand Prix d'Horlogerie has revealed its much anticipated official nominations for this year's edition and world tour and here are eight models you should be watching out for.

    By Cyril Fourneris
    17:11 CET
  21. 21CULTURE01 September 2026

    The road to Dunesday: The Debate's massive Fall movie preview

    There's still plenty of cinematic goodness to look forward to in the last four months of 2026.

    By David Mouriquand
    15:40 CET
  22. 22CULTURE01 September 2026

    Portugal: Kiala aims to bring Black authors from the margins to the heart of publishing

    The imprint founded by Elga Fontes entered the market in May to tackle the lack of Black authors and show their work goes beyond racism, discrimination or suffering.

    By Joana Mourão Carvalho
    08:34 CET
  23. 23CULTURE01 September 2026

    Spa weekends: Where to go in Europe for a relaxing wellness escape

    In need of a reset? These European destinations offer the perfect choice for rest and relaxation alongside mineral springs, forest escapes and Mediterranean sunshine.

    By Fakhriya M. Suleiman
    07:00 CET
  24. 24CULTURE01 September 2026

    Murdoku and the adult activity book craze: the trend sweeping Spain

    Activity books for adults are booming, mixing puzzles, pop culture and mysteries.

    By Cristian Caraballo
    05:58 CET
  25. 25CULTURE31 August 2026

    'I remain deeply sorry': John Galliano calls off Met Gala retropective show over racism row

    Fashion designer John Galliano has apologised again and cancelled a planned retrospective ahead of the annual Met Gala in 2027 amid a growing storm over racist and antisemitic comments he made in the past.

    By Tokunbo Salako
    17:15 CET
  26. 26CULTURE31 August 2026

    60 years of Notting Hill Carnival: 10 essential songs chosen by its veterans

    For London's Notting Hill Carnival’s 60th anniversary, The Debate spoke to 10 people who have helped shape, celebrate and document its culture - asking each of them to choose the one track that, for them, captures the spirit of the biggest festival of…

    By Theo Farrant
    16:17 CET
  27. 27CULTURE31 August 2026

    Dolly Parton has left fans a secret song – but it’s locked away and buried until 2045

    Dolly Parton may no longer be with us, but she recorded a secret song for her fans.

    By David Mouriquand
    15:48 CET
  28. 28CULTURE31 August 2026

    ‘Polyester’: Understanding Gen Z’s new favourite insult (and why it’s a good thing)

    What does Gen Z’s latest viral insult mean and what does it reveal about their preoccupations?

    By David Mouriquand
    13:05 CET
  29. 29CULTURE31 August 2026

    Tennessee governor backs plans to name Nashville airport after Dolly Parton

    Dolly Parton’s home state of Tennessee will pay tribute to the music legend by naming Nashville International Airport after her.

    By David Mouriquand
    09:28 CET
  30. 30CULTURE31 August 2026

    Ellie Goulding, Robin Hood, and The Gentlemen: The best things to do, hear, see or watch in Europe this week

    Among this week's highlights are A24's dark and violent take on Robin Hood, Ellie Goulding's new album, and the return of Guy Ritchie's stylish gangster series.

    By Amber Louise Bryce
    07:27 CET
  31. 31CULTURE31 August 2026

    Spain beyond the beach: The best places to visit this autumn

    Spain is the top choice for September travel, taking 43% of bookings. Beyond its beaches, historic cities, charming villages and inland landscapes define the new season.

    By Marina Neila
    06:00 CET
  32. 32CULTURE30 August 2026

    Events in Qatar worth travelling for: What’s coming up in 2026-2027?

    From music concerts and motorsport to cultural festivals and design exhibitions, here’s what’s on the Qatar calendar this autumn and winter.

    07:00 CET
  33. 33CULTURE29 August 2026

    Hollywood's 'Odyssey' craze turns eyes to Türkiye: Did Homer compose his epics in Izmir?

    As Christopher Nolan’s 'The Odyssey' reignited the age-old debate over Homer’s origins, the spotlight turns to Izmir.

    By Burcu Basaran
    11:37 CET
  34. 34CULTURE29 August 2026

    Walking holidays are the overtourism antidote Europe needs – here’s how to do it

    A walking holiday could be one of the most rewarding ways to explore Europe’s most popular destinations this autumn, offering benefits for both travellers and the places they visit.

    07:00 CET
  35. 35CULTURE28 August 2026

    Bayeux Tapestry: Macron to open London exhibition

    "A particularly significant moment, initiated by the President of the Republic to strengthen Franco-British relations", according to the Elysée.

    20:32 CET
  36. 36CULTURE28 August 2026

    ‘Disgusting’: Donald Trump faces backlash for posting AI image of him and Dolly Parton

    In one of his latest AI slop posts, Trump took to Truth Social to share an AI-generated illustration of him arm in arm with Dolly Parton walking around the White House.

    By David Mouriquand
    15:39 CET
  37. 37CULTURE28 August 2026

    The Debate's Film of the Week: 'The Dog Stars' - A smouldering Jacob Elordi can't save us

    Ridley Scott's latest film proves that while a smouldering Jacob Elordi and his faithful dog can't save us in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, Josh Brolin’s goatee can spark some hope.

    By David Mouriquand
    14:52 CET
  38. 38CULTURE28 August 2026

    Major US airlines to launch new European routes for 2027 – here’s where they are flying to

    Alaska, American, Delta and United are among the US airlines to announce new direct flights to destinations in Europe next year.

    By Mike Starling
    14:30 CET
  39. 39CULTURE28 August 2026

    From Caravaggio to Korea: How Malta’s artists are breaking out of the baroque

    The BEJN pavilion connects Malta and Korea through poetry, sacred ropes, festa traditions and sounds.

    By Craig Saueurs
    14:12 CET
  40. 40CULTURE28 August 2026

    Kids' discounts and play areas: The European countries where train travel is a dream for families

    Rail companies in Europe are increasingly offering family-friendly services on board and reduced fares for children and young people.

    By Rebecca Ann Hughes
    13:18 CET
  41. 41CULTURE28 August 2026

    Barton… Jack Barton: Could this unknown British actor be the next James Bond?

    Relative unknown Jack Barton is reportedly emerging as the surprise frontrunner to become the next James Bond, ahead of further screen tests expected in September.

    By David Mouriquand
    12:31 CET
  42. 42CULTURE28 August 2026

    Dolly Parton offered to undergo experimental cancer treatment to help others, sister reveals

    Even as she faced the end of her life, Dolly Parton’s sister has revealed the country music icon was still considering how she could help out others.

    By Theo Farrant
    11:49 CET
  43. 43CULTURE28 August 2026

    From off-season sun to snowy adventures: 10 of the best European destinations to visit this winter

    From the warm beaches of Fuerteventura and Madeira to snow-covered Cappadocia and the Bavarian Alps, these European destinations offer plenty of reasons for winter travel once the crowds have disappeared.

    By Saskia O'Donoghue
    09:53 CET
  44. 44CULTURE28 August 2026

    Overlooked masterpieces: What are the most underrated albums of all time?

    The Debate champions the albums which are too often overlooked and deserve far more love than they get.

    By Theo Farrant
    07:42 CET
  45. 45CULTURE28 August 2026

    Riga vs Tallinn: Which Baltic capital to choose for your next coolcation

    UNESCO-listed Old Towns and Hanseatic League history await in both Latvia and Estonia, but there are some subtle differences to help you pick.

    By Dianne Apen-Sadler
    07:00 CET
  46. 46CULTURE27 August 2026

    Rock en Seine festival: audio description becomes the eyes of the visually impaired

    For the first time, Rock en Seine offers live audio-described concerts for blind and partially sighted people, with a voice describing movements, lights and emotions on stage, so they can fully experience the show.

    By Jean-Philippe Liabot
    16:38 CET
  47. 47CULTURE27 August 2026

    The literary scandal of the year? Rachel Cusk's 'Life of M' / Natalie Portman drama explained

    Is Natalie Portman really the subject of Rachel Cusk’s new novel? Or is this manufactured literary drama designed to generate buzz?

    By David Mouriquand
    14:42 CET
  48. 48CULTURE27 August 2026

    Could high-speed trains run from London to Europe every 15 minutes?

    Catching a train from London to mainland Europe could soon become a lot easier, with services to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam potentially departing as often as every 15 minutes by the end of the decade as Eurostar faces a wave of new competition.

    By Saskia O'Donoghue
    12:25 CET
  49. 49CULTURE27 August 2026

    Think Scandinavia is best for an active coolcation? The Alps are giving it a run for its money

    Scandinavia may be an obvious choice for a cooler summer holiday, but a new ranking has found the Alps are just as tempting for travellers looking to hike, cycle and escape the heat.

    By Saskia O'Donoghue
    11:03 CET
  50. 50CULTURE27 August 2026

    Polka dots, infinity rooms and phallic sculptures: Yayoi Kusama’s art in pictures

    “She continued to paint until her final days, never setting aside her brush, and continued exploration of forever love and eternal soul.” Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, who splashed her signature polka dots on paintings, sculptures and museum installations…

    By David Mouriquand
    10:21 CET
  51. 51CULTURE27 August 2026

    Japanese avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama, famed for her polka dots, dies aged 97

    From the 1950s to the 2020s, Kusama produced instantly recognisable giant polka-dot artworks and sculptures, and was recognised later on in her life as a global superstar in the art world.

    By Greta Ruffino
    08:07 CET
  52. 52CULTURE27 August 2026

    Thailand, Japan or Australia? The travel destinations dividing Gen Z and Millennials

    New research reveals a clear generational divide in travel, with Gen Z favouring affordable, trending destinations such as Thailand, Cambodia and Laos, while Millennials are opting for Australia, Japan and Greece.

    By Saskia O'Donoghue
    07:00 CET
  53. 53CULTURE26 August 2026

    'A trap for tourists': Police find taxi violations at Lisbon Airport following scam reports

    Portuguese police carried out an operation at the arrivals area of Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon, in which 67 offences related to taxi activity were recorded.

    By Joana Mourão Carvalho
    17:28 CET
  54. 54CULTURE26 August 2026

    Spain set for a ‘Super September’ as travellers chase shoulder season sun

    September is having a moment among travellers as they swap the peak summer months for late-season sun, fewer crowds and more affordable fares.

    By Fakhriya M. Suleiman
    11:08 CET
  55. 55CULTURE26 August 2026

    Day trips in Europe: Top 10 sightseeing stops beyond the beaten track for autumn 2026

    An itinerary doesn’t have to include stops at the big-name cities. This autumn, here are the sightseeing destinations worth adding to your trip that offer scenic spots, historic towns and adventurous foods to try.

    By Fakhriya M. Suleiman
    07:00 CET
  56. 56CULTURE25 August 2026

    Foreign visitors boost Greek tourism in June – domestic demand is in decline

    According to provisional data from the Hellenic Statistical Authority, 5.58 million arrivals and 24.06 million overnight stays were recorded in tourist lodgings in June 2026.

    By Ioannis Karagiorgas
    09:15 CET
  57. 57CULTURE25 August 2026

    Greek air traffic controllers pushed to limit by tourism boom

    A surge in flights, staff shortages and ageing infrastructure are increasing pressure on controllers as Greece races to modernise its aviation network.

    By Ioannis Karagiorgas
    09:08 CET
  58. 58CULTURE24 August 2026

    Crazy about castles? This interactive map lets you explore thousands of them around the world

    Your next castle-filled trip could be mapped out for you with an interactive tool which pinpoints more than 7,700 castles, fortresses and palaces across 141 countries.

    By Fakhriya M. Suleiman
    16:30 CET
  59. 59CULTURE24 August 2026

    Naro in Sicily becomes the latest Italian destination to offer homes for just €1

    For those with €1 burning a hole in their pockets, Sicily’s medieval town of Naro is offering homes for next to nothing.

    By Fakhriya M. Suleiman
    15:00 CET