Castrum Cisternae International Literary Prize (Rev. Don Girolamo De Stefano Memorial)

A literary prize in the heart of Campania

The Castrum Cisternae International Literary Prize is the most significant cultural event in the municipality of Castello di Cisterna, a small town in the Metropolitan City of Naples, Campania. Promoted and organized by the Pro Loco Castrum with the patronage of the Municipality, the Metropolitan City of Naples, and the Accademia Internazionale Vesuviana, the prize is dedicated to the memory of Rev. Don Girolamo De Stefano, a figure deeply cherished by the local community. Established in 2011, the competition has become a benchmark for poetry and literature in the Vesuvius area and beyond, attracting authors from across Italy and abroad.

Competition categories

The prize is open to poets, writers, students, and all lovers of the written word. The call for entries includes several categories:

• Poetry: the historic section of the competition, open to both Italian and international authors;
• Fiction: short stories and prose based on the annual theme;
• Student Section: reserved for students from local schools who participate with original works.

Each edition revolves around a theme of significant civil and humanistic value, guiding the entries and the moments of public reflection.

The 16th edition 2026: "Staying Human"

The call for entries for the sixteenth edition was published on January 23, 2026. The theme chosen for 2026, inspired by George Orwell’s thought, is "Staying Human", based on the famous reflection: "It is not so much staying alive, as staying human that is important." It serves as an invitation to place culture, listening, and respect at the center of community life in an era marked by technology and speed.

Three days of culture

The Castrum Cisternae Prize is not just a competition, but a true celebration of culture traditionally spread over several days. The program includes book presentations, poetry readings, a conference dedicated to the annual theme with the participation of teachers and students, and the awards ceremony for poets, writers, and students, hosted at the Auditorium of Parco Enrico De Nicola. The event is accompanied by musical performances, readings, and tributes to personalities who have distinguished themselves in the field of culture.

A tradition spanning over fifteen years

With its 16th edition, the Castrum Cisternae Prize confirms a journey that began in 2011 and has never been interrupted. Previous editions have taken place between late September and October, involving schools, associations, and citizens of Castello di Cisterna and neighboring towns. More than just a literary contest, the event represents a stronghold of humanistic culture for the region and an opportunity for different generations to meet, united by their love for poetry and beauty.