8 Great Literary Cities Around the World

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

This article highlights 8 cities around the world that have a particularly strong connection to literature and the literary arts. The cities featured include London, Edinburgh, New Bedford, Concord, Paris, St. Petersburg, Portland, and Istanbul - all of which have inspired and been featured in the works of renowned authors throughout history.

Why it matters

These literary cities offer unique opportunities for bibliophiles and literary scholars to explore the settings, landmarks, and cultural influences that have shaped some of the most iconic works of literature. By visiting these destinations, travelers can gain deeper insights into the lives and creative processes of celebrated writers.

The details

The article delves into the specific literary legacies of each city. London is highlighted for its connections to authors like Dickens, Orwell, and Agatha Christie. Edinburgh was designated the first UNESCO World City of Literature and celebrates local writers like Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott. New Bedford, Massachusetts is known for its annual Moby-Dick Marathon, honoring Herman Melville's classic novel. Concord, Massachusetts was the birthplace of Transcendentalism through the works of Emerson and Thoreau. Paris was a hub for expatriate writers like Hemingway and Wilde. St. Petersburg features prominently in the works of Russian literary giants like Dostoevsky and Pushkin. Portland, Oregon boasts the world's largest new and used bookstore, Powell's City of Books. Istanbul inspired writers like Hemingway and Orhan Pamuk.

• In 1841, Herman Melville departed New Bedford on the whaling ship Acushnet, which inspired his novel 'Moby-Dick'.
• In 1956, The Portland Review was established in Portland, Oregon, publishing many important American writers.
• In 2004, UNESCO designated Edinburgh as the first World City of Literature.