Una Marina di Libri
Palermo's independent publishing festival at the Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa
About Una Marina di Libri
Una Marina di Libri: independent publishing in Palermo
Una Marina di Libri is the independent publishing festival held annually in Palermo, in the heart of Sicily, at the sprawling Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa complex (via Paolo Gili). Established in 2010, the festival has become one of the most beloved literary events in Southern Italy: for four days, the industrial spaces of the former factory are filled with stands, stages, and pavilions where literature meets music, theatre, illustration, and civic engagement.
A festival that gives a voice to resilient publishing
The heart of the event lies in the independent publishers from all over Italy, who bring the corridors of the Zisa to life with their catalogues and meet readers directly. Hundreds of events revolve around them: presentations, readings, debates, performances, shows, and concerts spread across numerous indoor and outdoor stages. The festival is organized by the Una marina di libri ETS association in collaboration with local entities such as Navarra Editore, Sellerio, Libreria Dudi, and the CCN Piazza Marina & Dintorni.
Signature sections
- Children and Illustration: curated by Libreria Dudi, offering over a decade of readings, workshops, and shows for younger audiences.
- I Segni di Venere: a series dedicated to the female universe, rights, and civic engagement, coordinated by Maria Giambruno.
- MarinaLive: concerts, readings, and theatre performances that animate the festival evenings.
- TACTILE GO!: a project for accessible and inclusive reading, featuring a travelling library.
Palermo, capital of reading
With its nominal entry fee and numerous free activities, Una Marina di Libri is a deeply popular festival, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The setting of the Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa, one of the most important cultural hubs in the Sicilian capital, provides a unique atmosphere blending industrial archaeology, greenery, and neighbourhood life. For the city of Palermo and all of Sicily, it serves as a showcase for independent culture and a forum for discussing the major issues of our time.
Una Marina di Libri — edition 2026
Una Marina di Libri 2026: "The Voice of the Voiceless"
The 17th edition of Una Marina di Libri was held from June 4 to 7, 2026 (with a preview on June 3) at the Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa in Palermo. The theme of the edition, "The Voice of the Voiceless," focused on those who narrate the world and on marginalized, forgotten, and submerged voices.
The festival brought together 84 independent publishers from across Italy and over 300 events spread across 13 stages, including presentations, readings, concerts, performances, workshops, and debates. Sections included: I Segni di Venere dedicated to the female world, Children and Illustration curated by Libreria Dudi, MarinaLive with music and theatre, the new FuoriLibro Young section, and the accessible reading project TACTILE GO!. Numerous prominent guests from the Italian and international literary and cultural scene were in attendance.
Programme Una Marina di Libri 2026
2026 Programme (theme "The Voice of the Voiceless"): 84 independent publishers, over 300 events on 13 stages. Sections: I Segni di Venere (female world, curated by Maria Giambruno), Children and Illustration (Libreria Dudi), MarinaLive (concerts, readings, theatre), FuoriLibro Young, TACTILE GO! (accessible reading), "Facciamo storie per crescere" (0-6 years). Announced guests included: Maurizio Molinari, Daria Bignardi, Nadia Terranova, Roberto Alajmo, Veronica Raimo, Antonella Lattanzi, Cristina Cassar Scalia, Giosuè Calaciura, Miguel Gotor, Giorgio Zanchini, Vauro, and many others.
Highlights Una Marina di Libri 2026
- 17th edition, theme "The Voice of the Voiceless"
- 84 independent publishers and over 300 events on 13 stages
- Preview on Thursday, June 3
- I Segni di Venere section and new FuoriLibro Young section
- TACTILE GO! accessible reading project
Prices Una Marina di Libri 2026
Practical information — Una Marina di Libri
Getting there
The Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa are located at via Paolo Gili 4, Palermo, with pedestrian access also available from via Perpignano. By plane, arrive at Palermo-Punta Raisi Airport; by train, arrive at Palermo Central Station, from where the Cantieri can be reached by city bus or taxi.
Tickets
Entry is subject to a nominal fee (daily tickets cost a few euros, with a multi-day pass available); children up to 13 enter for free, and there are specific time slots and activities with free access. Tickets can be purchased online via the ticketing platform or at the entrance.
Tips
We recommend checking the official website for the updated programme and presentation times. A free shuttle service from the city centre is often available during the festival.
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Where does it take place — Una Marina di Libri
Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa
Via Paolo Gili 4, 90138 Palermo