The Certamen Ovidianum Sulmonense Returns: 25th Edition in Sulmona

The Certamen Ovidianum Sulmonense Returns: 25th Edition

From 16 to 18 April 2026 Sulmona hosts the 25th edition of the Certamen Ovidianum Sulmonense, an international Latin competition dedicated to the poet Publius Ovidius Naso. Organized by the Istituto di istruzione superiore “Ovidio” together with the “Amici del Certamen” association and the Rotary Club of Sulmona, the event reaffirms the town's role in classical culture.

Students from many Italian high schools and several European countries, including Austria, Germany, Romania and Serbia, will participate. The 2026 theme is “Metamorphoses: tradition and translations”, which will shape the tests and scholarly activities.

• 16 April: opening ceremony at Cinema Teatro Pacifico with institutional greetings and an introductory lecture.
• 17 April: translation examination at the Liceo Classico “Ovidio”, with seminars led by university scholars.
• 18 April: guided visits around the area and the closing awards ceremony.

Monetary prizes for top winners and special awards from local bodies and associations are planned. The event highlights Sulmona's connection to its most renowned poet and promotes Latin studies and intercultural exchange among young people.