An ambitious proposal seeks to redefine the historic borderlands between Ireland and Northern Ireland, transitioning their identity from a region once associated with smugglers, paramilitaries, and military presence to the world’s inaugural UNESCO “Region of Literature.” This arts group initiative envisions developing engaging literary routes across 11 counties, inviting a new type of visitor: literary pilgrims eager to explore landscapes connected to a diverse array of writers, from the iconic Jonathan Swift to modern talents like Lisa McGee.
The plan is currently underway to rebrand this picturesque area, characterized by its twisting lanes and ancient hedgerows, as “Ireland’s northern literary lands.” This transformation aims to celebrate the rich literary heritage embedded within these counties, offering a unique cultural pilgrimage that highlights the profound connection between the land and its literary figures.