The historic Lingotto Fiere is once again abuzz, transforming into a vibrant hub for authors, publishers, and book lovers from across the globe. As the XXXVII edition of the Salone Internazionale del Libro di Torino unfolds from May 15th to May 19th, 2025, under the directorship of Annalena Benini, it continues a rich tradition of celebrating literature and fostering cultural exchange. This year’s guiding theme, “Le parole tra noi leggere,” underscores the power of words to connect, to foster understanding, and to illuminate the path of shared human experience.
The Soul of the Salon: Programme Highlights and Global Voices
The 2025 programme presents a rich tapestry woven with diverse narratives and intellectual exploration. The Netherlands is celebrated as the guest country, bringing its unique literary perspectives to the forefront, while the Italian region of Campania offers a deep dive into its own vibrant cultural and literary heritage. The schedule is packed with encounters designed to spark conversation and inspire. Special attention is given to the intersections of literature with art and architecture, featuring prominent voices such as Tracy Chevalier, famed for “Girl with a Pearl Earring,” and French author Marie Darrieussecq, who will delve into the stories of forgotten female artists.
Further enriching the dialogue, psychologist Matteo Lancini is set to explore themes of adolescence and personal growth, joined by Italian musician Salmo. The intricacies of the publishing world will be dissected by industry stalwarts Teresa Cremisi and Spanish publisher Silvia Sesé. For moments of levity and insight, beloved Italian personality Luciana Littizzetto will engage in conversation with television mainstays Mara Venier and Fabio Fazio. The burgeoning romance genre receives a dedicated spotlight with a discussion between bestselling authors Erin Doom and Felicia Kingsley, while esteemed novelists Alessandro Piperno and Pulitzer Prize winner Jhumpa Lahiri are also scheduled for an eagerly anticipated exchange. Moreover, key industry discussions, such as the Italian Publishers Association (AIE) meeting on May 16th analyzing “The book market in the early months of 2025,” promise crucial insights into the evolving literary landscape. The “Crescere con i libri” (Growing with Books) initiative also continues to nurture young readers, with dedicated events for children and families.
A Constellation of Italian Publishing
The Salone is, as always, a crucial stage for Italian publishing in all its multifaceted forms. From internationally renowned publishing houses to dynamic independent presses, the exhibitor halls present a comprehensive panorama of the Italian literary scene. It stands as a place for discovery, where readers can unearth new voices and engage directly with the creators and curators of literary culture. The combined presence of both large and small publishers powerfully underscores the vitality and diversity of Italy’s book industry.
Turin: A City Forged in Ink and Ideas
Turin’s identity as a global publishing capital is deeply etched in its history and remains vibrantly alive today. The city was a crucible of intellectual fervor during the Risorgimento and later became a key center for avant-garde movements, including Futurism. It is home to historic publishing houses that have indelibly shaped Italian culture, most notably Einaudi, which, under the guidance of figures like Giulio Einaudi and later Italo Calvino, became a beacon of literary excellence. Visionary editors like Calvino himself were instrumental in discovering and launching authors who became legends, such as Leonardo Sciascia and Mario Rigoni Stern, whose works are now studied in schools and celebrated worldwide. Other historic Turin-based publishers like Loescher Editore continue their distinguished legacy in educational publishing, while the city remains a fertile ground for contemporary publishing innovation. This profound editorial tradition forms the bedrock upon which the Salone continues to thrive.
Literary Encounters and Celebrated Authors
Beyond the names already highlighted, the Salone 2025 is set to welcome a constellation of Italian and international authors. The detailed programme, readily available on the official Salone del Libro website, lists hundreds of events, book presentations, debates, and workshops. These encounters provide invaluable opportunities for readers to connect with their favorite writers, discover new talents, and delve deeper into the themes shaping contemporary literature. The special events, often featuring unique performances, readings, and cross-disciplinary discussions, significantly expand the traditional definition of a literary festival.
Beyond the Fair: Unveiling the Charms of Turin
For international visitors, the Salone del Libro offers a perfect pretext to explore the multifaceted beauty of Turin, Italy’s first capital. The city’s elegant baroque architecture, grand piazzas, and tree-lined boulevards are a delight to discover. No visit is complete without marveling at the Mole Antonelliana, an iconic structure housing the National Museum of Cinema, and ascending for panoramic city views. The Museo Egizio boasts one of the world’s most significant collections of Egyptian antiquities, second only to Cairo.
Visitors can wander through Piazza Castello, the city’s historical heart, home to the Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) and Palazzo Madama, or stroll under the arcades of Piazza San Carlo, often referred to as Turin’s “drawing room.” For a breath of fresh air, the Parco del Valentino along the Po River offers beautiful walks and the charming Borgo Medievale (Medieval Village). The magnificent Basilica di Superga, perched on a hill overlooking the city, offers breathtaking vistas and a poignant history. For automotive enthusiasts, the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile is a must-see, while the historic Quadrilatero Romano, with its narrow streets and vibrant atmosphere, is perfect for an evening passeggiata.
A Culinary Journey Through Piedmont and Turin
Turin also stands as a capital of taste, inviting visitors to indulge in the rich flavors of Piedmontese cuisine. Signature dishes include Agnolotti del Plin (small, pinched pasta often stuffed with meat), the robust Brasato al Barolo (braised beef in Barolo wine), and the convivial Bagna Cauda (a warm dip of garlic, anchovies, and olive oil served with raw vegetables). Not to be missed are Vitello Tonnato (cold sliced veal with a creamy tuna sauce) or the fine, hand-stretched Grissini (breadsticks), which originated here.
For a sweet immersion, Turin is the world’s capital of Gianduiotto, the exquisite hazelnut-infused chocolate. The historic Bicerin, a layered drink of espresso, chocolate, and cream, is an unmissable local ritual best enjoyed at its namesake, Caffè Al Bicerin.
For an authentic taste of Turin, consider dining at Del Cambio, a historic Michelin-starred restaurant frequented by Cavour; Porto di Savona, offering traditional Piedmontese fare in Piazza Vittorio Veneto; or Ristorante Casa Savoia, noted for its refined interpretation of traditional Piedmontese and Italian cuisine. For those seeking options closer to Lingotto Fiere, restaurants around the Lingotto complex and the nearby Eataly flagship store also offer quality choices.
For accommodation near the Salone del Libro at Lingotto Fiere, excellent options include the NH Torino Lingotto Congress, conveniently connected to the fair, and the DoubleTree by Hilton Turin Lingotto, also within the former Fiat factory complex. Other nearby choices include the Hotel Continental and Hotel Astor, offering comfortable stays.
The Enduring Value of the Printed Word
In an era increasingly dominated by digital media, events like the Salone Internazionale del Libro di Torino play a profoundly important role. They are vibrant testaments to the enduring power of the physical book and the irreplaceable experience of communal reading and discussion. The Salone is more than just a marketplace; it is a cultural incubator, a space where ideas are exchanged, creativity is celebrated, and new generations of readers are inspired. It champions the tactile pleasure of holding a book, the focused engagement of reading a printed page, and the collective joy of sharing stories. By bringing together such a diverse array of voices and experiences, the Salone actively promotes literacy, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of our complex world, reaffirming that even in the digital age, the printed word remains a vital cornerstone of culture and connection.
Article written with help of AI
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