Exeter achieves UNESCO City of Literature status

October 31, 2019 - Exeter was awarded prestigious UNESCO City of Literature status.

It became the only city in the UK to be given the status in this round, and joins 65 other cities across the world who have become part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

“This is fantastic news for Exeter,” said City Council Leader Phil Bialyk after the announcement was made. ”Once again, this is international recognition for the city and its cultural offer,” he added.

Cllr Rachel Sutton, Lead Councillor for Climate and Culture, said: “I am absolutely thrilled with the news - it is a huge honour for Exeter that will unlock exciting new opportunities for everyone in the city to engage in culture.”

Exeter’s bid was very much a collaboration of people and organisations across the city, including Exeter Culture, but the bid came from the city council.

Those involved in the bid were: Exeter City Council, Exeter Culture, The University of Exeter, Devon County Council, Exeter College, Libraries Unlimited, Literature Works, Exeter Cathedral and Exeter Canal & Quay Trust. Literature Works, the literature development agency for south-west England, wrote the bid in collaboration with the steering group.