Etruscan Literary Festival at the Banditaccia Necropolis: four days of

Etruscan Literary Festival at the Banditaccia Necropolis

When: 23-26 April 2026 — Where: Banditaccia Necropolis, Cerveteri (RM). Free admission.

The Banditaccia Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will host four days of literary events where contemporary writing meets ancient history. The festival includes author talks, novel presentations and the national opening stage of the Strega Prize, drawing readers and cultural professionals from across Italy.

Key program highlights

• 23 April, 17:30: opening with Erica Cassano presenting Duramadre.
• 23 April: presentation of Giulio Leoni's The Anatomist of Shadows, a historical thriller set in nineteenth-century Rome.
• 24 April: Serena Bortone presents Le Dirimpettaie, followed by Antonella Mollicone with La Femminanza. All sessions moderated by Gino Saladino.
• 26 April: main day hosting the national opening of the Strega Prize tour with the twelve shortlisted authors.

The festival aims to make reading accessible while enhancing the experience of the archaeological site. Local cultural bodies, libraries and booksellers collaborate to involve young audiences and the wider community.

Practical information

• Admission: free for all events.
• Venue: outdoor locations within the Banditaccia Necropolis; appropriate footwear and early arrival are recommended due to site logistics.
• Audience: literature enthusiasts, students, families and cultural professionals interested in UNESCO heritage and literary events.

The Etruscan Literary Festival reinforces Cerveteri's role as a cultural hub that bridges archaeology and contemporary literature, offering visitors a chance to explore a UNESCO site through public dialogue and storytelling.