Acharnes is situated 11 kilometers north of Athens and south of Parnitha. It has been continuously inhabited from ancient times to the present day, as evident from excavation data and philological sources detailing the area’s significance. According to a literary source, the region’s name originates from “acharna” or “acharnos”, which mean sea bass, referencing the plain’s resemblance to a large fish in shape. The origins of the city date back to the Neolithic Age. In ancient times, Acharnes held significant political and religious importance, around which smaller municipalities in northern Attica arose. Acharnes was subject to the rule of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires until Greece gained independence in 1821. Throughout the 16th century, Acharnes served as the chief residential and economic hub after Athens, with vast expanses of agricultural land. On the eve of the 1821 revolution, the Athenians were confined within the Haseki wall and looked to the Menidiates, Hasiotes, and other Attican inhabitants for their liberation. The Greek revolutionaries successfully ousted the Turks in May 1829. According to a Royal Decree in 1835, the Acharnes Municipality was established, which, together with the Municipalities of Athens, Piraeus, Amarousiou, Marathonos, Myrrinountos, Arafinos, and Lavrio, constituted the Province of Attica. Nowadays, Acharnes Municipality is one of the largest municipalities in Attica, covering an area of over 150,000 acres. Acharnes is also a member of the B40 Balkan Cities Network today.
Alexandroupolis, named after King Alexandros I of Greece, is a port city and tourist destination on the Aegean Sea coast in northeastern Greece. The city is known for its historical landmarks such as the Mavrolimni Lighthouse, beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. For nature lovers, the surrounding Rhodope Mountains offer an ideal location for outdoor activities. It is also important for trade as it is located close to the Turkish border. Alexandroupolis offers visitors a variety of experiences with its history, natural beauty and lively atmosphere.
Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is the largest city in Serbia and the Balkan Peninsula with a population of more than 1.5 million and a city whose centuries-old history is a testament to the dynamic energy of a modern metropolis. Founded by the Celts in the 3rd century BC, this ancient city has been shaped by various civilizations such as the Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans and Austro-Hungarians. This rich heritage is reflected in its architecture, museums and cultural traditions.
Today, Belgrade is a thriving commercial, cultural and educational center in Southeastern Europe. It has a modern skyline, a vibrant art scene and a vibrant nightlife, while maintaining its historical charm. The city’s commitment to sustainable development, tourism and international cooperation positions it as a key player in the region. Belgrade continues to develop by embracing its past and future at the same time, which makes it an attractive destination for residents and visitors eager to explore both its rich history and vibrant present.
Belitsa is one of the oldest settlements in Bulgaria with a history dates back to 8000 years BC. Belitsa is situated in the mountanious area which includes Rila and Rhodope Mountains in the Southwestern part of Bulgaria. Approximately 9.786 people are living in Belitsa. Majority of the population is Muslim which contains the %74.7 of the population. Local economy of Belitsa is based on wood processing industry. City was also a part of United Nations Development Program between 2003-2007. Belitsa is also a winter tourism center of Bulgaria due to the presence of skiing resorts in Semovko a town in Rila Mountain. Belitsa is a member of B40 Balkan Cities Network.
Nestled in the Republic of Srpska, Bijeljina is a city with a rich history. It was first mentioned in 1446 and has since developed into the second-largest city in the region, covering an area of 734 square kilometres and home to about 107,715 inhabitants.
The moderate-continental climate experienced in Bijeljina adds to its distinctive character. The city’s past encompasses a tough period during World War I, wherein Austro-Hungarian officials suspected cooperation with adjoining Serbs, recorded by Austrian author Egon Erwin Kisch. Nevertheless, in 1918, after the triumph of the Serbian military and the disintegration of Austria-Hungary, Bijeljina and Semberija finally relished liberty. Bijeljina is a city characterised by perseverance and a prosperous legacy. Its journey through history is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the local population, establishing it as a dynamic and historically important facet of the Republic of Srpska.The Bijeljina city is a member of the B40 Balkan Cities Network.
Burgas is an important city and port on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. This beautiful city is famous for its history, cultural richness and natural beauty. The Black Sea coast of Burgas offers beautiful beaches, clean sea and a perfect environment for water sports. The city is a popular destination for vacationers and sailing enthusiasts during the summer months. The city is also notable for its historical and cultural heritage. Archaeological museums, old churches and historic buildings reflect Burgas’ rich past. In addition, art galleries and theater stages serve as the center of cultural events. The port of Burgas also plays a major role in trade. Opening to the Black Sea, it is an important part of Bulgaria’s foreign trade.
Constanta is the fourth largest city in Romania after Bucharest, Cluj and Gai, and is located in the region of Dobrudja, in the southeastern part of the country, where the Tuna River joins the Black Sea. The country’s largest city, home to one of the most important ports in the Black Sea, was founded by the Greeks in the 600s BC under the name “Tomis”. With its history dating back thousands of years, its unique architecture, cosmopolitan cuisine influenced by different cultures and kilometres of beaches, it is also an important summer tourist destination. B40 is one of the founding members of the Balkan Cities Network.
Çanakkale is a port city located in the Western part of Turkey at the Dardanelles Strait with a population of 559.000 people.First settlements in the region dates back to 6000 BC. City has an important part in Turkish History due to Gallipoli War in World War I. A monument to commemorate the fallen soldiers in war was built in 1960 at Gallipoli peninsula. In every 18 March Turkish Victory in Gallipoli War is celebrated in Çanakkale with international participation. In addition to that 25 March is celebrated at the ANZAC Day for the fallen Allied soldiers in Gallipoli. Çannakale also contains the ancient city Troy which is in UNESCO World Heritage List within it’s borders. Çanakkale is a member of B40 Balkan Cities Network.
Dimitrovgrad, which was formed by the consolidation of three villages – Rakovski, Mariyno, and Chernokonevo, boasts a rich past that extends back to the Paleolithic Age. The fertile lands situated by the Maritsa and Merichlerska rivers lured inhabitants to settle there for thousands of years. The city’s name is associated with momentous historic occurrences such as the Third Crusade and Tsar Kaloyan’s triumphs in Trakiya. It has withstood numerous conquerors throughout time, including the Ottoman Turks. Rakovski, previously known as Kayadzik and renamed in 1925, played a significant role in the development of the region’s agriculture, industrialisation, and coal mining. Mariyno, formerly known as Kokardzha, underwent a name change in 1897, while Chernokonevo, previously named Chernichevo, was renamed in 1906 due to changing circumstances. Dimitrovgrad was officially granted city status in 1947, rapidly emerging as an industrial hub with cement plants, fertiliser factories, power plants, and coal mines. It places great value on green spaces and culture, with parks, gardens, theatres, and even an amateur planetarium. Dimitrovgrad is a vibrant and historically significant Bulgarian city that maintains global cultural links with twin cities across the world. Today Dimitrovgrad is also member of B40 Balkan Cities Network.
Chania is a city located on the west coast of the Greek island of Crete and is the second largest city in Crete. Chania, the fourth largest city on the Island of Crete, is famous for its historical and cultural riches, beautiful beaches and natural beauties. The city was home to the Minoan civilization in ancient times. Later, it was under the influence of different civilizations such as the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Venetian Republic and the Ottoman Empire. The city has cultural richness as it is home to many civilizations. There are many churches in the city, along with the Küçük Hasan Pasha Mosque from the Ottoman period.
Durres, Albania’s second largest city after the capital Tirana, is a coastal and tourist city located on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, approximately 30 kilometers from Tirana. One of the oldest settlements in the country, Durres dates back to the 7th century BC and has been home to many civilizations from Ancient Greece to Rome and the Ottoman Empire. Durrës is an important port city in terms of maritime trade in the Adriatic and the Mediterranean, and the country’s gateway to Europe via Italian ports. It is one of the Founding Members of the B40 Balkan Cities Network.