From 31 July to 2 August 2026, Un Lago di Libri returns to Orta San Giulio, a festival celebrating stories, culture and the connection between the local area and Italian design.
The festival opens on Friday, 31 July, at 10:30 am with the official opening ceremony and continues until 9:00 pm, featuring talks, book presentations and a guided walk through the village exploring the industrial heritage of Lake Orta.
On Saturday, 1 August, from 11:00 am, the programme continues with new guests and events, including a conversation with Celestina Bialetti, who will present a book dedicated to the family behind the iconic Moka coffee maker.
On Sunday, 2 August, again from 11:00 am, Alberto Alessi will bring the festival to a close with a talk tracing the history of one of Italy’s most iconic design brands.
The programme also features a special opening of the Museo della Tornitura in Pettenasco, along with a photography exhibition, offering visitors an experience that extends beyond books and reveals a more authentic side of Lake Orta.
All events take place at Palazzo Penotti Ubertini, overlooking Piazza Motta, the main square of Orta San Giulio.
If you are arriving by car, you can park in one of the car parks at the entrance to the town and reach the venue with a pleasant 5–10-minute walk. As the historic centre is a limited traffic zone (ZTL), the final stretch must be completed on foot, following the village’s charming cobbled streets to Piazza Motta.
Admission to all events is free, subject to venue capacity. If you are planning to attend the most popular talks, we recommend arriving a little early to secure a seat.
See also
Category: Culture
From 31 to 2 August 2026
Free admission