Lungomare da leggere

A literary festival on the Apuan seafront

When summer arrives, the seafront of Marina di Massa transforms into a grand salon of paper and words. Lungomare da leggere is the festival that has been bringing the biggest names in Italian fiction to the foot of the Apuan Alps for several years, in that strip of coast that connects the Tuscan Versilia sea to the marble mountains. Promoted by the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Carrara and directed by writer Marco Vichi, the event takes place in the Municipality of Massa, in the province of Massa-Carrara, and is entirely free of charge.

Two hearts: Villa Cuturi and Piazza Betti

The festival is spread across two nearby and complementary venues, both in Marina di Massa. Villa Cuturi, an elegant historic villa surrounded by greenery just a few meters from the sea, hosts evening meetings with authors and scenic readings. Piazza Betti is the realm of families and children, with creative workshops, storytelling, and activities designed for younger ones. The program grows every year with previews and widespread events: in 2026, a launch evening was also held at Palazzo Binelli in Carrara, the headquarters of the Foundation.

More than just a series of presentations

Lungomare da leggere is not just a book presentation series: it is an invitation to share stories. Alongside meetings with protagonists of Italian and international literature, the festival offers readings curated by the LaAV (Letture ad Alta Voce) circles, kamishibai performances (Japanese paper theater), musical moments, and the involvement of student volunteers from local high schools who support the organization. It is a model of a community-based festival, capable of combining the excellence of its guests with a free, inclusive atmosphere.

Marina di Massa, between sea and the Apuan Alps

The setting for the event is Marina di Massa, one of the most popular seaside resorts on the northern Tuscan coast, with its pine-shaded promenade and the spectacular backdrop of the Apuan Alps. Visiting the festival also means discovering a lesser-known corner of Tuscany, suspended between the beaches of the Apuan Riviera and the marble hinterland of Carrara. The end of June, with its long days and mild evenings, is the ideal time to combine a beach holiday with a deep dive into books.