Murello Historical Novel Festival
The first Piedmontese festival dedicated to the historical novel, set in the land of Edoardo Calandra
About Historical Novel Festival
A one-of-a-kind festival in Piedmont
The Historical Novel Festival in Murello, nestled in the heart of the Cuneo plains, is the first Piedmontese event entirely dedicated to a literary genre that weaves together storytelling and historical memory. The inaugural edition, scheduled from June 5th to 7th, 2026, was conceived by the Murello Municipal Administration and transforms this small town in the Province of Cuneo into a vibrant hub for writers, readers, publishers, and local book clubs for an entire weekend.
A tribute to Edoardo Calandra
Murello was not chosen by chance: the town is the home of Edoardo Calandra, author of 'La Bufera' (1899), a novel set in this very location and considered by many to be the 'Promessi Sposi of Piedmont'. The work, which was adapted for television by RAI in 1975 starring Gabriele Lavia and Marilù Tolo, now lends its name to the 'La Bufera' Civic Library and the 'E. Calandra' primary school, two of the festival's main venues. The bond between literature, history, and local identity is the common thread running through the entire event.
Festival venues
Events take place in three symbolic locations in the town: the Confraternita di San Giuseppe, the heart of the main sessions and the opening ceremony; the 'La Bufera' Civic Library, where creative workshops are held; and the 'E. Calandra' Primary School, which hosts sessions aimed at younger audiences. These three intimate spaces allow for direct and close interaction between authors and the public.
Goals and ambitions
The festival aims to promote reading and showcase the local area, providing a platform for local authors, publishing houses, independent bookstores, and reading groups. From its very first edition, the project has received the patronage of the Piedmont Region and the Turin International Book Fair, reflecting its ambition to establish a cultural appointment in the Cuneo area that is destined to grow over the years.
Historical Novel Festival — edition 2026
The first edition of the Historical Novel Festival in Murello takes place from June 5th to 7th, 2026, focusing on the dialogue between authors and readers. The program alternates between historical novel presentations, school meetings, creative workshops in the library, and guided tours to discover the village of Edoardo Calandra. The event is held under the patronage of the Piedmont Region and the Turin International Book Fair, with the support of Banca di Cherasco.
Programme Historical Novel Festival 2026
Friday, June 5th
- 10:00 AM — Meeting with authors Rita Sperone and Massimo Tosco at the 'E. Calandra' Primary School
- 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM — Creative workshop at the 'La Bufera' Civic Library
Saturday, June 6th
- 3:30 PM — Inauguration at the Confraternita di San Giuseppe
- 5:00 PM — Presentation of 'Isacco Levi e Le tredici stelle di David' with Ermanno Giraudo
- 6:00 PM — Presentation of 'Lo Viatge' with Franco Canavera
- 9:00 PM — Special event 'Women Who Run with the Wolves' with Cristina Bertolino and Rosalba Nattero
Sunday, June 7th
- 10:45 AM — Historical guided tour of the village
- 3:00 PM — Talks dedicated to Edoardo Calandra and international link-up
- 3:30 PM — Presentation of 'La Levatrice di Cardè' with Erica Bonansea
- 4:30 PM — Presentation of 'La Tana di Cesco' with Marco Craveri
- 5:30 PM — Presentation of 'La Decima Masca' with Fulvia Viola Barbero
Highlights Historical Novel Festival 2026
Prices Historical Novel Festival 2026
Practical information — Historical Novel Festival
When
From June 5th to 7th, 2026, with events scheduled throughout the morning, afternoon, and evening.
Where
Murello (CN), Province of Cuneo, Piedmont. Venues include the Confraternita di San Giuseppe, the 'La Bufera' Civic Library, and the 'E. Calandra' Primary School.
How to get there
Murello is located in the Saluzzo plains, a short distance from Racconigi and Carmagnola. By car, it can be reached via the A6 Turin-Savona motorway (Carmagnola or Marene exit) and local provincial roads. The nearest train station is in Racconigi on the Turin-Cuneo line.
Admission
For updated information on schedules, reservations, and entry, please contact the Murello Municipal Administration.
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Where does it take place — Historical Novel Festival
Confraternita di San Giuseppe