A new literary path: How is Dante Alighieri connected to Posoc, Trieste and Slovenian Istria?

A new transnational literary route inspired by Dante Alighieri has been launched, connecting cultural heritage, literature and sustainable tourism across the border regions of Italy and Slovenia. The initiative, part of the European program Interreg VI-A Italy-Slovenia, aims to create a shared literary path that links key locations, historical figures and stories on both sides of the border. It draws upon the legacy of Dante Alighieri, the renowned Italian poet, whose influence extends into the areas of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, the Julian Alps, Istria and Trieste. The project, titled Dante, was announced by the Slovenian Society of Writers (DSP), which collaborates with partners in both countries. It seeks to reinterpret Dante’s connections to the cross-border space through a modern lens, using historical records, literary traditions and contemporary narratives. A central element of the project is the creation of five interactive cultural itineraries that connect sites, literary personalities and cultural heritage on either side of the border. These routes incorporate storytelling techniques, aiming to bring literary heritage closer to modern visitors while promoting sustainable and slow tourism. The initiative builds on the existing international literary festivals of Vilenica and Pordenonelegge, which have long served as platforms for cross-border collaboration among writers and literary institutions. This year's edition of Vilenica, taking place during the project's implementation period, focuses on the theme of identity fluidity, aligning with the project's goal of exploring how literature reflects evolving cultural identities. The organizers emphasize that the project will facilitate greater connections between Slovenian and Italian authors, literary institutions and festivals, creating opportunities for joint events and activities. The project involves several key locations, including the island of Cres, where one of the earliest copies of Dante’s Divine Comedy was copied in the Middle Ages and is now housed in the Venetian library Marciana. Other participating towns include Tolmin, Tolmeč, Trieste and other border communities. The initiative also includes planned joint events in these locations, further strengthening the ties between the two nations. The 30-month-long project began in April 2024 and is set to conclude in October 2026. Its total value amounts to 1.37 million euros, with nearly 1.1 million euros funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The project is led by the Municipality of Cres, with additional participation from five other partners based in Slovenia and Italy. The Slovenian Society of Writers serves as one of three associated partners, contributing its expertise in literary and festival-related initiatives. The final results of the project will be presented at a concluding conference scheduled for September 29 in Trieste. The event will provide an opportunity to showcase the outcomes of the collaborative efforts and highlight the significance of Dante’s legacy in fostering cultural exchange and understanding between the two neighboring countries.