Montegiordano: the Calabrian village where poetry comes alive in the

Montegiordano: a village where poetry lives in public space

Located in Calabria, Montegiordano has made love poetry a defining cultural feature. Verses and ceramic installations along the historic center turn the village into an emotional itinerary where reading is a shared, outdoor experience.

The contest and how to enter

The prize for unpublished love poems and songs returns this year: submissions are accepted until 16 May 2026. The call is open to anyone who wants to turn an emotion into a lasting piece of writing; selected works gain visibility within a network of poetry-focused villages. A jury of cultural and music professionals will evaluate the entries.

The Festival: four days between sea and hills

From 23 to 26 July Montegiordano becomes a lively stage hosting the "Village of Love Poetry" Festival, a distributed program featuring readings, workshops, author talks and art installations. Highlights include:

• public readings and performances across the village;
• creative workshops for different ages;
• meetings with writers and musicians;
• art installations and guided poetic walks.

Why visit

Beyond cultural events, Montegiordano offers sea views and a well-preserved historic center. The village is appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere, slow pace and artistic details—perfect for visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences.

Practical tips

• Check the contest rules and submission guidelines before applying.
• Book accommodation early, especially for the festival period.
• Wear comfortable shoes to explore narrow streets and higher viewpoints.
• Review the daily schedule to plan readings and workshops you don’t want to miss.

Montegiordano strengthens its role within a network of poetry villages, offering both creators and visitors a unique way to engage with local culture and the territory.