A new Victor Hugo Centre trail will bring together retailers, local businesses and community spaces across St Peter Port.
The trail will offer islanders and visitors a rare opportunity to explore the town as Hugo experienced it more than 170 years ago.
Building on the Victor Hugo Trails launched last summer, which follow Hugo’s footsteps through St Peter Port to Fermain, the new trail focuses on the shops, institutions and community spaces that helped shape daily life in Guernsey during his time on the island.
Sponsored by Moore Stephens, the trail launches on Friday 10 April and spans multiple locations across Town. Twelve local businesses and community spaces are taking part, including Guille-Alles Library, Creaseys, Ship & Crown and Mappin & Webb Jewellers.
Chair of the Victor Hugo Centre, Larry Malcic, said: “During the 15 years that Victor Hugo lived in Guernsey, he was part of the local community through shopping and banking, supporting local philanthropic events or attending concerts – all whilst continuing to influence world events and writing some of his greatest work.
“We invite people to come and discover St Peter Port in a new way. It is fascinating to look back at how the town has changed, and to think about Victor Hugo’s enduring legacy. The Victor Hugo Centre will tell the story of Victor Hugo’s literary and artistic achievements, his visionary humanitarian legacy and the inspiration he found as he explored Guernsey.”
Sam Bird, CEO of Moore Stephens, said: “We are proud to continue our collaboration with the Victor Hugo Centre on these trail initiatives, which are wonderful examples of how Guernsey’s business community can work together with charities to create something of lasting value. As well as offering a fascinating insight into Victor Hugo’s life in Guernsey, the trails provide an engaging and accessible experience for both islanders and visitors to enjoy throughout the year.”
Anna Symons, Marketing and Communications Officer at Guille-Alles Library said: “We’re really excited for the Library to be part of the new Victor Hugo trail. Mapping out the routes he took and the places he visited helps us to feel more deeply connected to our shared local history. Victor Hugo was an impactful figure during his Guernsey exile, and the Library is thrilled to help share his great stories.”
