Always dreamed of living and writing in a castle?

By Ōtepoti He Puna Auaha | Dunedin UNESCO City of Literature | Posted: Thursday Jun 04, 2026

The first international Tukums UNESCO City of Literature Writer-in-Residence Programme has now officially launched, hosted at the stunning Jaunpils Castle in Latvia. Applications close 30 June 2026.

Based in the historic heart of the Tukums region, the residency—'Jaunpils Rakstnieku pils' (Jaunpils Writers’ Castle)—invites writers, poets, playwrights, and screenwriters connected to UNESCO Cities of Literature around the world to apply.

Taking place in October 2026, the programme offers selected writers the chance to spend two or four weeks living and working in a private apartment within a medieval castle, while also engaging with the vibrant literary and cultural life of Tukums City of Literature and the wider region.

This is a rare opportunity to step into a setting rich with history and atmosphere, and to focus deeply on your creative work in an inspiring environment.

For more information about the program, and to apply, see documents below and visit: Jaunpils Rakstnieku pils - Jaunpilspils.lv