The Festival plays host to world-famous writers and poets, some of the most interesting voices from emerging literatures, essayists, musicians, artists and scientists who foster a more complex and unusual notion of literature that includes unconventional literary domains and languages. Festivaletteratura pays special attention to young people: many of the events, performances and workshops across the five days are especially devised for youngsters, or to be enjoyed by young and old alike. Everything takes place in Mantua, a World Heritage Site and veritable gem of the Renaissance. Not only does the compact size of the city bring authors and readers together, it also means that everyone can easily get from one event to another on foot.

Starting off as a grass roots initiative on the part of local citizens who wanted to share their idea with the rest of the city – inspired by some well-established examples across Europe, especially in the British Isles – the Festival quickly became a Mantuan institution, as proven by the support shown by local businesses who sponsor events, the incredible number of volunteers and the help and collaboration of local individuals and associations.

With the archive of materials from the past nineteen years at its disposal, Festivaletteratura keeps innovating and serving as a point of reference for Italian and foreign authors, as well as for the volunteers of all ages who embody the event’s vibrant nature. This is equally true for the cultural institutions, libraries and reading groups who offer their invaluable support in the creation of projects and activities that help keep the Festival spirit going all-year-round.