TuscaniaLibri

A book fair in the heart of Tuscia

TuscaniaLibri is a book fair dedicated to local publishing houses and independent authors, established in 2019 by ACTAS (the Cultural Association for Tourism, Art, and Entertainment of Tuscania) in collaboration with Edizioni Penne e Papiri, writer Roberta Mezzabarba, and photographer Marco Scataglini. The goal, stated since its first edition, is to attract intellectuals, readers, and book-loving tourists to this Etruscan town while offering a tangible showcase for those publishing outside major editorial circuits. The event is sponsored by the Municipality of Tuscania and the Province of Viterbo, and has received support from the Lazio Region and the BCC of Rome over the years.

Palazzo Fani, a 16th-century setting

The fair takes place at Palazzo Fani, a 16th-century noble residence overlooking Via della Libertà in the historic center of Tuscania, which now serves as the headquarters for ACTAS. The palace's halls host publisher and author stands, meetings, and exhibitions: an intimate and evocative setting, perfectly scaled for visitors, where it is easy to stop and talk directly with those who write and publish books.

Local publishers and independent authors

The format features two sections: on one hand, publishing houses from the Tuscia and Lazio regions, and on the other, independent authors, who find an exhibition space and a curious audience here. Throughout the weekend, the program alternates between book launches, conferences, and debates, with the participation of figures from the worlds of culture, journalism, and entertainment. There are also in-depth sessions related to local history and archaeology, a deeply felt theme in a city of Etruscan origin.

The ACTAS Literary Prize dedicated to Enio Staccini

A central moment of the fair is the presentation of the ACTAS Literary Prize named after Enio Staccini, a local historian and librarian from Tuscania: an award reserved for those who have contributed to promoting Tuscania and preserving its history and traditions through their work. In 2024, the prize was awarded to Mauro Loreti for his commitment to the research and dissemination of historical texts on ancient Tuscanian society; in 2025, the award reached its fifth edition.

Where books meet photography

Alongside the written word, for several editions now, TuscaniaLibri has reserved special attention for the photobook: the ground floor of Palazzo Fani hosts self-produced works and small independent photography publishers, with the participation of collectives and photography circles from Lazio. Special exhibitions dedicated to the book complete the visitor experience.

Tuscania, an Etruscan and medieval city

The fair is also an opportunity to discover Tuscania, one of the most fascinating centers in the province of Viterbo, in the heart of the Lazio Maremma: the Romanesque basilicas of San Pietro and Santa Maria Maggiore, the Etruscan necropolises, the medieval walls, and the Torre di Lavello park are well worth the trip on their own. Autumn, with the Tuscia countryside dressed in seasonal colors, is an ideal time for a slow visit, amidst books, ancient stones, and local cuisine.

Why visit

TuscaniaLibri is not a massive trade fair but a human-scale event where publishers and authors are within easy reach for conversation, and admission is free. For those who love independent publishing, local history, and the villages of Lazio, the fair's weekend combines books, exhibitions, and one of the most authentic and lesser-known art cities in the region.