Cesare Filangieri National Poetry, Music and Photography Prize

A cultural award in the heart of the Vesuvius area

The Cesare Filangieri National Poetry, Music and Photography Prize is one of the most cherished cultural events in Cercola, a town in the province of Naples, Campania, nestled at the foot of Mount Vesuvius. The festival is dedicated to the memory of the Filangieri family, historically linked to the area and remembered for the role of Cesare Filangieri, father of the renowned Enlightenment jurist and philosopher Gaetano Filangieri.

Origins and spirit of the event

The prize was born from a simple yet ambitious idea by a group of local young people, with the goal of showcasing the artistic, cultural, and social excellence that contributes to the community's growth. Now in its seventh edition as of 2025, it has become a well-established fixture, part of the "Autumn in Cercola" calendar, bringing together artists, enthusiasts, and citizens around the values of culture and sharing.

The three competition categories

The core of the prize is the national competition, divided into three categories:

• Poetry — unpublished works in Italian;
• Music — musical pieces and performances;
• Photography — artistic shots selected by a dedicated jury.

In addition to the category winners, the event also presents special awards and lifetime achievement recognitions to individuals who have distinguished themselves through their artistic, cultural, and social commitment within the Vesuvius area.

The ceremony at the Municipal Theatre

The award ceremony takes place at the Municipal Theatre of Cercola, located in the Palaplatani area along Viale dei Platani. The evening alternates between performances, readings, musical acts, and moments of reflection, creating a festive atmosphere that engages the local community and traditionally concludes with a convivial buffet.

Patronage and organization

The prize is promoted by the Immacolata e Sant'Antonio Ecclesiastical Body, with the patronage of the Campania Region, the Vesuvius National Park Authority, and the Municipality of Cercola. Over the years, the event has expanded its activities, adding artistic workshops and initiatives aimed at promoting local cultural heritage alongside the competition.