Chiasso d'Arte

Chiasso d'Arte: The words that light up summer in Monreale

Chiasso d'Arte is a vibrant literary festival that, during summer evenings, brings the Chiasso Beato Pino Puglisi to life—a secluded corner of the historic center of Monreale, in the Metropolitan City of Palermo, Sicily. For a few evenings, this alleyway turns into a true literary agora, where books, authors, and readers meet just steps away from the famous Norman Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

A project of cultural rebirth

The festival is promoted by the Festina Lente Cultural Association with the free patronage of the Municipality of Monreale. It was conceived and curated by cultural operator Claudia Scavone, with the coordination of journalist Rosario Lo Cicero Madè, president of the association. The initiative is inspired by the message of Blessed Don Pino Puglisi—"And if everyone does something..."—and proposes culture as a tool for civic growth and the reclaiming of public spaces in the town.

Meetings, words, and storytelling

The heart of Chiasso d'Arte lies in its book presentations and meetings with authors, built around the themes of words, poetry, and narrative. Each evening focuses on a book and its author, accompanied by readings, dialogues with the audience, and musical contributions. The themes range from the history of Sicily to travelogues, and from poetry to more intimate and introspective writing.

An outdoor, free experience

All events take place outdoors, in the intimate setting of the Chiasso, welcoming the public in the late afternoon with sessions starting in the early evening. Admission is free, in keeping with the popular and participatory vocation of the event, designed to bring citizens and visitors closer to reading.

Monreale, between art and culture

Hosting a literary festival in Monreale means weaving contemporary words with one of Sicily's most extraordinary places: the town is world-famous for its Arab-Norman Cathedral and golden mosaics. Chiasso d'Arte adds a living, current dimension to this heritage, made of voices, books, and community.