On 9 May, 2023, Vodnikova Domačija in Ljubljana became a literary hub for Europe Day, showcasing the vibrant and diverse publishing landscapes of five European countries. The event, with the participation of the French Institute, Austrian Cultural Forum, Liszt Institute, Italian Cultural Institute, and Goethe-Institut, offered a unique glimpse into the cultural and literary richness of Europe.
Attendees were treated to fascinating stories and photos from each country, highlighting lesser-known publishers, unique bookshops, and dynamic literary festivals that play crucial roles in their national and local literary scenes. The Goethe-Institut shed light on Germany’s literary traditions, including a renowned week-long philosophy festival. Austria’s contribution included a look at a feminist bookstore in Vienna that’s been a cultural landmark for over a decade. Hungary’s Liszt Institute introduced us to ‘Írók Boltja’, a vibrant cultural space in Budapest that blends literature with visual arts. The French Institute explored the intricacies of French publishing and the role of bookshops and media in promoting literature. The Italian Cultural Institute highlighted the rich literary heritage of Italy, focusing on the influence of emerging authors and unique book festivals.
Moderated by Andrej Hočevar, the event facilitated engaging discussions with representatives from each institute, providing insights into the trends shaping the literary scenes in the respective countries. Attendees also had the opportunity to browse through a selection of books and magazines and enjoy refreshments from each participating country.
The evening was a celebration of Europe’s literary diversity and a chance to explore different cultural perspectives. If you missed this year’s event, make sure to join us next time for another exciting journey through Europe’s literary landscapes.