Italian culture: Barbanera Almanac release and new literary works

The Barbanera 2027 Almanac, recognized by UNESCO as ‘Memory of the World’ since 2015, will be released in Italian newsstands and bookstores on October 17. This year’s edition, titled ‘The Spirits of the Months,’ focuses on twelve figures from Italian popular culture, including Christian saints, agricultural cults, and local legends that embody the character of each month.

The visual identity for the 2027 edition is provided by the Roman artist Lucamaleonte (Luca Vollono), known for his urban mural art. His contemporary style interprets traditional myths and archetypes through a vibrant, figurative lens.

In the realm of contemporary Italian fiction, several notable novels are highlighted for the autumn season. Nicola Lagioia’s ‘Santa Barbara’ explores a family saga set in Puglia, examining themes of ambition and sacrifice. Jonathan Bazzi’s ‘Bestiola’ delves into themes of grief, solitude, and the human-animal bond through the lens of a protagonist mourning the loss of a pet.