Monreale named Italian Capital of Books for 2027

The municipality of Monreale, located near Palermo, Sicily, has been officially named the Italian Capital of Books for 2027. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Culture, with the recognition presented by Minister Alessandro Giuli.

Monreale's winning proposal, titled “Monreale legge il mondo” (Monreale reads the world), was selected from 31 competing candidacies representing 92 municipalities. The project was praised by the jury for its ability to integrate the city's historical and artistic heritage with reading promotion and innovation. The initiative aims to leverage the city's unique Norman, Arab, and Byzantine cultural layers to foster dialogue, social cohesion, and global openness.

The program focuses on strengthening the role of libraries, expanding reading activities beyond traditional venues, and reaching various local districts. It also emphasizes increasing cultural access for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and people with disabilities. To support this initiative, the Ministry of Culture will provide a contribution of 500,000 euros.