Kahramanmaraş in southern Türkiye has been designated a UNESCO City of Literature, joining the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in recognition of its centuries-old literary heritage and ongoing commitment to literature, culture and sustainable urban development.
Established in 2004, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network promotes creativity as a strategic driver of sustainable urban development. The network brings together hundreds of cities worldwide that collaborate across creative fields including literature, gastronomy, design, music, film, media arts, crafts and folk art.
The City of Literature designation is awarded to cities where literature plays an active role in contemporary life through cultural policies, education, literary production and community engagement. UNESCO's recognition of Kahramanmaraş reflects both its historical literary legacy and its continued investment in cultural initiatives.
The designation is also expected to strengthen the city's international profile while creating new opportunities for cultural tourism, creative industries and sustainable economic development.
5 centuries of literary tradition
