The Calabrian city of Vibo Valentia
has been named the first ever Italian Book Capital, for 2021,
Culture Minister Dario Franceschini announced on Friday.
Vibo beat Ariano Arpino, Caltanisetta, Campobasso, Cesena and
Pontremoli.
The Calabrian city won because "it has distinguished itself for
the quality of the initiatives presented, set out clearly, in
which rigour and enthusiasm have been combined," Franceschini
said.
He said the winning idea had been "to make books enter people's
lives in a very powerful way.
"We are certain that this concept will be translated into
virtuous behavior destined to leave a lasting mark".
Vibo Mayor Maria Limardo said "I have never been so excited. We
are making great progress to redeem our community, because we
have always come last in all the standings and we have to be
proud that we are now top...because our city is a beautiful
city, rich, full of heritage, full of extraordinary beauty, but
above all full of so many beautiful people who read, who write,
who are aware and identify with their home town".
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