Italian Book Capital 2027: Palazzo San Gervasio leads Lucanian bid

Italian Book Capital 2027: Palazzo San Gervasio leads Lucanian bid

Palazzo San Gervasio has launched a joint candidacy for the Italian Book Capital 2027, presenting a plan that networks Alto Bradano and Melfese territories with the backing of regional capitals. The initiative seeks to make the book a driving force for territorial cohesion and cultural development.

Called "Le trame del Bradano," the proposal brings together several local municipalities to form a unified front for the Ministry. Among the participating towns are:

• Acerenza, Banzi, Cancellara, Forenza, Genzano di Lucania, Maschito, Montemilone, Oppido Lucano, San Chirico Nuovo and Tolve (Union of Alto Bradano municipalities)
• Melfi, Venosa and Lavello
• Palazzo San Gervasio (lead municipality), supported by Potenza and Matera

Organisers emphasize that books should act as a bridge between villages and cities, not as isolated events. Planned actions include strengthening local library networks, developing reading routes and cultural itineraries, school programmes, and decentralized festivals.

Should the bid be approved nationally, organisers envisage a multi-year programme of events aimed at boosting cultural tourism, supporting local publishing chains and hosting workshops and residencies for authors and young readers.