Giano Vetusto International Biennial of Poetry and Fiction

A literary competition in the Alto Casertano

The Giano Vetusto International Biennial of Poetry and Fiction is one of the longest-running literary competitions in the province of Caserta. Established around the year 2000 by the Panta Rei Cultural Association, the event takes its name from the small town of Giano Vetusto, a village of a few hundred inhabitants nestled in the hills of the Alto Casertano, in Campania. Held every two years, the prize reached its 14th edition in 2026, confirming its status as a landmark event for poets and narrators who send their work from all over Italy and beyond every two years.

Competition sections

The competition is divided into several sections ranging from poetry to prose. Recent editions have included a themed poetry section (which changes each edition), a free-theme poetry section named in memory of Francesco Carlo Zona, a short fiction section, and a section reserved for young authors under 18, dedicated to the memory of Professor Laura Righi. Winning entries receive cash prizes, plaques, and mentions, while younger participants receive book vouchers: a practical way to introduce students to creative writing.

The Panta Rei Association and its mission

Active since 1999, the Panta Rei Cultural Association—presided over by Professor Alba Mercone—promotes culture and art in the region, with a particular focus on the written word. The Biennial is its most well-known initiative: the evaluation of works is entrusted to qualified juries composed of teachers and subject experts, ensuring competence and impartiality in the selection of winners.

The awards ceremony in Giano Vetusto

The highlight of each edition is the awards ceremony, which takes place in the town of Giano Vetusto, often spread over one or two evenings. It is an occasion where authors, their families, and enthusiasts gather in the Caserta village for readings of the winning texts, musical interludes, and the presentation of awards, in an atmosphere that blends literary prestige with the conviviality typical of the Campanian province.

A prize rooted in the region

Despite its national and international reach, the Giano Vetusto Biennial remains deeply connected to its land. For a small town in Campania, it represents a rare cultural stronghold capable of attracting attention beyond regional borders, while simultaneously enhancing the identity of the Alto Casertano and the patient work of the many volunteers who keep the event alive, edition after edition.