Matera "Città che legge"

Matera, the city of the Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 2019 European Capital of Culture, adds a new prestigious recognition to its rich list of accolades: it is officially a “Città che legge” (City of Reading).
This important title, awarded by the Centre for Books and Reading (Cepell), testifies to the collective commitment of our community to promoting reading as a tool for individual and collective growth. This milestone was made possible thanks to the signing of the “Pact for Reading” by over sixty associations, public and private bodies, all driven by a common goal: to cultivate a love for books and make reading accessible to everyone.
Being a “City of Reading” means that Matera pulses with initiatives dedicated to books and literary culture. From cozy libraries to lively festivals, from creative workshops to author meetings, every corner of our city becomes a stage for stories and words.
This recognition is not a point of arrival, but a new beginning. An invitation to continue weaving, day by day, a web of encounters, discoveries, and passions around books.

Come and discover the reading Matera: an exciting journey among ancient stones and endless stories.
Join Us! Support the Passion for Books

Want to do your part to promote reading in Matera? Here’s how you can contribute:

• Take part in our initiatives: Check the event calendar and join workshops, meetings, and festivals.

• Visit our libraries and reading spaces: Discover the treasures they hold and enjoy all their services.

• Support the associations and organizations participating in the “Pact for Reading”: Their commitment is essential to growing our community of readers.

• Propose new ideas and collaborations: If you have a project or want to join our network, contact us!

• Spread the love of reading: Talk about your favorite books, give the gift of stories, and share the magic of reading with those around you.

Together, we can make Matera a place where every citizen is a passionate reader.

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Cepell

The Centre for Books and Reading (Cepell) is an autonomous institute of the Ministry of Culture whose goal is to promote books and reading throughout Italy. Through initiatives, studies, and awareness campaigns, Cepell promotes reading as a tool for personal, social, and cultural growth.

The “City of Reading” program is one of Cepell’s main initiatives. It recognizes and supports municipalities that are committed to continuously promoting reading in their area. The program’s main objectives are:
• To support and enhance local initiatives aimed at spreading reading.
• To create a national network of cities active in the promotion of books.
• To encourage collaboration among libraries, schools, bookstores, cultural associations, and other public and private entities.
• To promote reading in all its forms, with particular attention to younger generations and to populations with fewer opportunities for access to reading.
To learn more about Cepell and its activities, visit the official website:

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