Writer Cónal Creedon Began Portugal Lecture Tour
The Irish author kicked off a university lecture series in Portugal to mark Ireland’s Presidency of the EU Council.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Lecture and Seminars
Irish writer Cónal Creedon has commenced a multi-university lecture tour across Portugal. The series began at the University of Lisbon to honor Ireland’s Presidency of the EU Council.
Why it matters
The tour serves as a cultural initiative highlighting Ireland's diplomatic and academic ties to Europe during its EU Council Presidency. It aims to foster educational exchange between Irish literary voices and Portuguese academic institutions.
The tour includes scheduled stops at the University of Lisbon, the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro in Vila Real, and the University of Porto. These events are part of a broader itinerary across Portugal.
The players
Cónal Creedon
Cónal Creedon is an Irish writer from Cork city who is currently leading an academic lecture tour through Portugal.
Alma Ní Choigligh
Alma Ní Choigligh serves as the Irish Ambassador to Portugal and accompanied the author at the opening lecture.
Teresa Casal
Teresa Casal is a professor who hosted the opening event of the lecture series at the University of Lisbon.
The details
Creedon delivered The Embassy of Ireland Lecture at his opening stop in Lisbon. The series involves engagements at multiple higher education institutions to promote Irish culture and academic dialogue.
Timeline
October 6, 2026: Creedon began his tour at the University of Lisbon.
October 7, 2026: Creedon addresses a conference in Vila Real.
October 8, 2026: Creedon presents a lecture at the University of Porto.
Industry Dynamics
This tour reflects a growing trend of cultural diplomacy where authors are integrated into state-led academic outreach programs during international political tenures. It aligns with broader efforts to leverage soft power through literary exchanges within the European Union.
The public can engage with the series by attending scheduled lectures at participating universities in Lisbon, Vila Real, and Porto. These sessions offer academic access to Irish literature as part of an official diplomatic program.
The takeaway
This tour demonstrates how literature can be utilized to strengthen international relations during political transitions. Travelers and academics in Portugal may check local university bulletins for remaining availability to attend these public lectures.
What happens next
Cónal Creedon will visit the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro on October 7, 2026, followed by an appearance at the University of Porto on October 8, 2026.
Further reading
Find more academic and cultural events on our Lecture and Seminars page.
