Athens is ready to begin this year with an exciting celebration having been designated World Book Capital, a title the city will hold from April 2018.
UNESCO World Book Capitals have been established to promote books, authors and reading activities as well as organizing cultural events and activities over the year revolving around the world of the written word.
Past cities designated as World Book Capitals include Madrid (2001), New Delhi (2003), Turin (2006), Bogota (2007), Ljubljana (2010), Buenos Aires (2011) and Bangkok (2013) among many others.
The city of Athens was chosen for the quality of its activities, supported by the entire book industry.
The proposed program includes meetings with writers, translators and illustrators, concerts, thematic exhibitions, poetry readings and workshops for publishing professionals.
Its aim is to make books accessible to the city’s entire population, including migrants and refugees. Members of the Advisory Committee also praised Athens’ cultural infrastructure and its expertise in organizing international events.
Activities start with the celebration of World Book and Copyright Day (April 23). The event sets a calendar of activities related to books, reading and those especially thought to promote culture and knowledge for visitors and Athenians alike.
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