FosdiNov'Idea

A festival of science and imagination in Fosdinovo

In the heart of Lunigiana, perched between the sea and the Apuan Alps, the medieval village of Fosdinovo (Province of Massa-Carrara, Tuscany) hosts FosdiNov'Idea, a festival that combines science communication, science fiction, and fantasy in a weekend of events open to everyone. For two days, the town's squares and alleys, overlooked by the imposing Malaspina Castle, transform into a large open-air laboratory where curiosity takes center stage.

Three squares, a thousand experiences

The program unfolds across the squares of the historic center, each with its own unique focus: Piazza Cairoli is the stage for talks and performances, where experts take turns explaining science in a brilliant and accessible way; Piazza Palanca brings together food stalls and games, perfect for a convivial break; while Piazza Garibaldi is entirely dedicated to children, with readings and workshop activities designed for ages 1 to 14.

Offerings for younger visitors include treasure hunts, creative workshops, brick building, botanical experiments, and age-appropriate scientific activities, all in a safe and supervised environment.

The stars of science communication

The strength of FosdiNov'Idea lies in its guests: over the years, the festival has brought leading names in Italian science communication to Fosdinovo, from astrophysicist Luca Perri to philosopher of science Telmo Pievani, from science communicator Alan Zamboni (known as Curiuss) to naturalist Andrea Bonifazi, and even astronaut Paolo Nespoli. Alongside the talks, there is space for board games, role-playing games, exhibitions, and astronomical observation sessions curated by the IRAS amateur astronomers.

A free event for the whole family

FosdiNov'Idea was born from the collaboration between the IRAS amateur astronomers' association, Alea Games APS, and the Municipality of Fosdinovo, with the support of the Fondazione Carispe. Admission is completely free: an opportunity to discover science while having fun and, at the same time, to visit one of the most fascinating villages in Lunigiana and northern Tuscany.