Book Fair – Barter/Swap

A book fair in the heart of the Nebrodi

The Book Fair – Barter/Swap is the literary highlight of Sinagra, a village in the Nebrodi mountains in the province of Messina, Sicily. Hosted in the halls of Palazzo Salleo—an imposing 19th-century building recently acquired and restored by the Municipality, now serving as a venue for conferences and cultural events—the festival is organized by the L'Elefantino Cultural Association in collaboration with the Sinagra Pro Loco and the local administration.

The spirit of the barter/swap

The name of the festival reflects its core philosophy: bartering, or exchanging books as a gesture of sharing and rediscovering the joy of reading. In a fast-paced world that often seems to lack genuine connection, the fair was created to preserve poetry and writing, fostering direct contact between authors and potential readers. It is an occasion where books circulate from hand to hand, far removed from the logic of mere commercial purchase.

Sicilian poetry, authors, and publishers

Each edition brings together Sicilian poets, writers, and publishers from the Messina area and other parts of the island. The evenings feature institutional remarks, presentations by publishing houses, poetry readings, and musical interludes. Special attention is given to poetry, with awards for the most appreciated works, all set within an intimate and engaging atmosphere that celebrates the dialogue between author and audience.

A growing event

Launched in 2023, the Book Fair – Barter/Swap has established itself as one of the most popular cultural initiatives in Sinagra, the result of a solid collaboration between the association, the Pro Loco, and the Municipality. The event helps make Palazzo Salleo a key landmark for the cultural life of the town and the wider Nebrodi region.

Sinagra and its surroundings

Part of the Municipality of Sinagra's winter event calendar, the fair offers visitors the chance to discover an authentic Nebrodi village, rich in traditions, hospitality, and the landscapes of the Tyrrhenian coast of Sicily.