The Elbe brings together literature and a modern perspective
The picturesque island of Isola d'Elba, once home to Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile, plays host to a prestigious literary award - the International Literary Prize Isola d'Elba - Raffaello Brignetti. Founded in 1962 by a group of Tuscan literary figures, the prize aims to make Isola d'Elba a "cultural utopia."
The prize is named after Raffaello Brignetti, who created one of the most significant maritime epics in our literature. Over the years, the prize has been presided over by various individuals, with a new leader taking the helm since 2024.
Napoleon Bonaparte spent three hundred days of exile and principality on Isola d'Elba (May 4, 1814 - February 26, 1815). During his stay, he brought 146 volumes to the island, forming the founding core of his library collection. This historical connection adds a unique charm to the literary prize.
The prize has honoured some of the most renowned Italian and international authors. In 2005, the prize was awarded to Antonio Tabucchi, and in 2010, it was given to Erri De Luca. Other notable winners include Sandro Veronesi, Sandra Petrignani, Vittorio Lingiardi, and Ernesto Ferrero, who won in 2003.
Ferrero, a deeply passionate admirer of Isola d'Elba, dedicated his most famous novel, N., to the island. He served as president of the jury until 2023 and once stated that books are the most reliable vessels for navigating the complex contemporary world.
The Elba Prize presents examples of literature that combine the highest ethical and aesthetic quality. Giuseppe Pontiggia considered one of the most successful novels of the 2000s to be Ernesto Ferrero's N. Other esteemed authors on the list of winners include Alfonso Gatto, Heinrich Böll, Tommaso Landolfi, Eugenio Montale, Mircea Eliade, Mario Tobino, Mario Luzi, Fosco Maraini, Muriel Spark, Benedetta Tobagi, Francesca Melandri, Domenico Starnone, Paolo Giordano, and Antonio Franchini.
The 53rd International Literary Prize Isola d'Elba - Raffaello Brignetti concluded on September 6, 2025. The prize continues to express great ideals through books and the experience of the sea, fostering a love for literature and the arts on Isola d'Elba.
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