Celje has officially joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), placing it among the world’s cities that contribute to sustainable development through creativity and vibrant cultural life.

UNESCO has awarded the Municipality of Celje the prestigious title of Creative City of Literature, joining 408 cities from more than 100 countries worldwide. This year, it welcomed 58 new cities to the network, recognising their commitment to culture, creativity and innovative urban development.

Celje was recognised as a city that fosters an exceptional literary tradition, a strong reading culture and creativity, while promoting the integration of literature into everyday life – from its extensive library network and literary festivals to projects that connect books, art and education.

Mayor Matija Kovač highlighted the importance of the recognition: “This title is a great honour for everyone in Celje who keeps the written word alive – for our Central Library, the Veronika Poetry Award, the Celje Mohor Society, literary creators, cultural institutions and countless volunteers. At the same time, it is a commitment to continue developing Celje as a city of culture, creativity, and open-mindedness.”

With this designation, Celje further strengthens its position as a city of creativity, knowledge and international cooperation. Becoming part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network marks a new chapter in the development of cultural tourism and the promotion of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Celje will now have the opportunity to actively participate in UNESCO projects, opening new possibilities for collaboration in the fields of culture, education, sustainability, and youth engagement.

The recognition comes at the perfect time – Celje will play a prominent role at the 41st Slovenian Book Fair. In cooperation with the Celje Mohor Society, the Celeia Celje Institute and the Central Library of Celje, the city is preparing a diverse accompanying programme that will showcase its literary and creative spirit. Highlights will include the Walk Through Our Homeland exhibition, a photo corner dedicated to Alma Karlin, postcard writing activities, and special events for reading clubs and “golden readers.”

Celje now stands alongside Ljubljana, which has been a UNESCO City of Literature since 2015, further confirming that Slovenia’s cities with a strong literary pulse play a vital role in promoting reading, culture, and creativity on the international stage.