The European Central Bank (ECB) has shortlisted Greek opera singer Maria Callas as a candidate to appear on the front of the €5 euro banknote as part of a new design series focused on 'European culture.' The proposed design, created by Greek designer Myrsini Vardopoulou, features Callas alongside other notable figures such as Beethoven, Marie Curie, and Leonardo da Vinci. The ECB has released all design proposals for public review until September 21, 2024, following an EU-wide competition with over 1,200 entries. The final selection will be made by the ECB’s Governing Council by late 2026 after considering expert evaluations and public feedback.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the ECB's decision to shortlist Maria Callas for a banknote design as a neutral fact-based update. It does not take a partisan stance on cultural representation or national identity, nor does it frame the choice through ideological lenses. The focus remains on the procedural and






