Vilnius granted name of UNESCO city of literature

The literary life in Vilnius, kas been appreciated with the name of the UNESCO city of literature. The Lithuanian capital has become the second city in the Baltic states to be honoured this way.
The Vilnius city council stated on Monday, November 8, that in the world, around 40 cities in 29 countries and six continents also bear the name. Tartu in Estonia received the honour in 2015.
Vilnius mayor Remigijus Šimašius was pleased about the development. «Vilnius has received UNESCO recognition as the city of literature. It really is. At least for me – starting with [medieval Lithuanian Grand Duke] Gediminas’ letters. Then Adomas Mickevičius. Then Česlovas Milošas, Romain Gary. Then Ričardas Gavelis, Jurgis Kunčinas, Kristina Sabaliauskaitė. We both write and read. And we celebrate reading – the Book Fair, literature festivals, open reading room in Lukiškės Square. We have been preparing and preparing for the application since the year 2018. Thank you to everyone, who contributed, supported and especially to everyone, who read and wrote,» the head of the Lithuanian capital stated.
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The UNESCO has been awarding the name of the city of literature since 2004. To receive the honour a number of criteria have to be met. For example, the quality, quantity, and diversity of publishing in the city is evaluated. Also, quality and quantity of educational programmes focusing on domestic or foreign literature at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels in the respective city are considered.