Tartu UNESCO City of Literature offers a two-month residency for writers and translators, from 15 October to 15 December 2026. One participant will be selected.
Tartu is the second largest city in Estonia, but is widely considered its intellectual capital: vitally important for the development of the educational system, culture, science and literature in the Estonian language. In 2015, Tartu was designated a UNESCO City of Literature, which has further strengthened its vibrant literary scene. The Tartu City of Literature residency programme aims to increase international exchange and communication, contribute to the mobility of writers and translators, offer a creative and inspiring environment, and give writers the opportunity to introduce their work to Estonian readers. The programme is open to writers and translators (translating from Estonian into other languages) from across the world who meet the criteria set out. The residency programme is coordinated by the Estonian Literary Society, in cooperation with the Tartu Literature House Foundation and in partnership with various other literary institutions.
The residency period includes the interdisciplinary literary festival Crazy Tartu (12 to 14 November), where the resident will have the opportunity to perform.
The resident stays in the former Karl Ristikivi Museum, the last home of the renowned Estonian writer Karl Ristikivi (1912-1977) before his exile to Sweden in 1943. The historical atmosphere has been preserved, with all modern facilities available. Alongside accommodation, the resident receives a scholarship of € 600 per month and compensation for travel costs to and from Tartu up to € 350. A contact person helps with performances, meetings and connecting to local literary life.
Applications are open until 1 September 2026. The results will be announced before 15 September.
Full information, the application criteria and the application form can be found here. Questions? Email Marja Unt at eks@kirjandus.ee.
