Salone Internazionale del Libro: A History of Turin's Premier Book Fair
The Salone Internazionale del Libro stands as a cornerstone of literary culture in Italy. Established to celebrate the written word, this prestigious event has evolved over decades, transitioning through various names and venues while remaining a vital hub for authors, publishers, and readers alike.
The Founding and Early Years
The fair was founded in 1988 by entrepreneur Guido Accornero and bookseller Angelo Pezzana. Originally named the Salone del Libro, the event launched with a grand opening ceremony on May 18, 1988. This inaugural event took place at the Teatro Regio opera house and featured the distinguished Nobel laureate Joseph Brodsky.
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Evolution of Venues and Identity
As the event grew in scale and popularity, its physical location shifted to accommodate more visitors. The fair was initially hosted at Torino Esposizioni before moving to Lingotto Fiere in 1992, where it has remained since.
The fair's identity underwent several changes due to administrative and legal complexities. Between 1999 and 2009, disagreements with the owner of the original trade name led the organization to rename the event. It was first called the Fiera del Libro, and from 2002, it became the Fiera Internazionale del Libro. In 2010, the event officially reclaimed its original identity, becoming the Salone Internazionale del Libro.
Leadership and Literary Excellence
The direction of the fair has been led by prominent figures in Italian literature, specifically winners of the Strega Prize (Italy's most prestigious literary award). From 1999 to 2016, the fair was directed by Ernesto Ferrero, who won the Strega Prize in 2000 for his novel N.
In October 2016, the leadership passed to Nicola Lagioia. Lagioia is also a Strega Prize winner, having received the honor in 2015 for his novel La ferocia (also known as The Ferocity).
Key Facts
- Founded: 1988 by Guido Accornero and Angelo Pezzana.
- Current Venue: Lingotto Fiere (since 1992).
- Inaugural Guest: Nobel laureate Joseph Brodsky.
- Name Changes: Transitioned from Salone del Libro to Fiera del Libro/Fiera Internazionale del Libro (1999–2009) before returning to Salone Internazionale del Libro in 2010.
- Leadership: Directed by Strega Prize winners Ernesto Ferrero and Nicola Lagioia.
| Year/Period | Event/Change | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1988 | Foundation | Opened May 18 at Teatro Regio |
| 1992 | Venue Move | Relocated to Lingotto Fiere |
| 1999–2009 | Renaming | Known as Fiera del Libro / Fiera Internazionale del Libro |
| 2010 | Rebranding | Renamed Salone Internazionale del Libro |
| 2016 | Leadership Change | Nicola Lagioia appointed as director |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the Salone Internazionale del Libro?
The fair was founded in 1988 by entrepreneur Guido Accornero and bookseller Angelo Pezzana.
Where is the book fair currently held?
Since 1992, the event has been held at Lingotto Fiere in Turin.
Why did the fair change its name between 1999 and 2009?
The name was changed to Fiera del Libro (and later Fiera Internazionale del Libro) due to disagreements with the owner of the trade name "Salone del Libro."
Who are the notable directors of the fair?
The fair has been led by two Strega Prize-winning authors: Ernesto Ferrero (1999–2016) and Nicola Lagioia (October 2016–present).
Who was the guest of honor at the opening ceremony?
The opening ceremony on May 18, 1988, featured Nobel laureate Joseph Brodsky.