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Town trail launched to walk in Victor Hugo’s footsteps

A new Victor Hugo trail launching today will focus on the shops, institutions and community spaces in St Peter Port that shaped the author’s daily life while he lived here and invite people to take a walk in Hugo’s 19th century shoes.

The bustling Market Square that would have been familiar to Victor Hugo.
The bustling Market Square that would have been familiar to Victor Hugo. / Picture supplied

Last summer, a trail was launched to trace Hugo’s steps from St Peter Port to Fermain.

Victor Hugo Centre chairman Larry Malcic said that during the 15 years that the esteemed author lived in Guernsey, from 1855 to 1870, he was part of the local community through shopping and banking, supporting local philanthropic events and attending concerts.

‘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,’ he said.

‘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.’

The new trail will bring together 12 local businesses and community spaces, including the Guille-Alles Library, Creaseys, the Ship & Crown and Mappin & Webb Jewellers.

The Commercial Arcade.
The Commercial Arcade. / Picture supplied

‘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,’ said Guille-Alles Library marketing and communications officer Anna Symons.

‘Victor Hugo was an impactful figure during his Guernsey exile, and the library is thrilled to help share his great stories.’

The trail is sponsored by Moore Stephens, who also launched the trail last summer.

The Guille-Alles Library assembly rooms.
The Guille-Alles Library assembly rooms. / Picture supplied

Chief executive Sam Bird said the company was proud to continue its collaboration with the Victor Hugo Centre and create something of lasting value.

Visual information boards are being installed today and the trail can be followed on the Visit Guernsey website.

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