This blog is part of a series produced by Intercultural Roots for Public Health (Coventry, England) as part of their Tier One partnership with MakingCulture® e.V. (Coburg, Bayern). Find out more about their partnership
Words can describe the history between Coventry and Coburg, but only images can capture the feeling of the friendship that has grown between them. We are thrilled to share a short film that documents the recent 'Bridging Cultures' exchange, a project brought to life by Intercultural Roots and Making Culture.
More Than Just Meetings As the video shows, this project was far more than sitting in meeting rooms. It was a lived experience. From sketching the passing landscapes on the train ride to Coburg to sharing meals at long communal tables, every moment was an opportunity to connect.
Mapping Our Shared History One of the highlights captured in the footage is the "brainstorming map" a table covered in colourful notes drawing lines between our cities. You can spot key themes we have explored:
- Industry: The transition from weaving and textiles to automotive engineering.
- Icons: The contrast between Coventry's Lady Godiva and Coburg’s Prince Albert.
- The Colour Blue: Connecting Coventry Blue dye with the historic blue factories of Germany.
The Universal Language of Music Perhaps the most touching moments in the film are the musical ones. Whether it was a quiet ballad played on a guitar in a stone courtyard or the group learning to sing "Muli bwanji" (a greeting song meaning "How are you?"), music became the bridge that required no translation.
Joy in Motion The film concludes with laughter, dancing, and high-fives—a testament to the genuine bonds formed. As the team poses inside a large golden picture frame, it is clear that while we came together to study history, we left having made new memories.
