Over the weekend, the 20th International Book Fair of Thessaloniki attracted a crowd of 85,000 visitors, according to organisers' reports on Monday.
This year's edition featured a diverse array of offerings, with 850 exhibitors, over 1,500 Greek and foreign authors, speakers, and book professionals from 40 countries participating. The fair hosted more than 500 events across 14 halls, covering a total area of 16,000 square meters.
A notable highlight was the homage to Sharjah, one of the emirates of the United Arab Emirates, which spotlighted themes such as trauma, the Syrian and Palestinian issues, the refugee crisis, and cross-cultural understanding. The Sharjah kiosk showcased 13 books by Sharjah authors translated into Greek, alongside discussions between prominent Arab and Greek cartoonists. Additionally, the fair featured sessions on advancing women in the publishing sector, translation, feminism, and gender identity.
Facilitating international collaboration, over 30 foreign publishers and members of the ENLIT translation network engaged in discussions with Greek counterparts on book production and rights acquisition.
Introducing a new interactive portal, the fair provided visitors with guidance on events and exhibition kiosks, as well as live streaming of sessions. This initiative was made possible through funding from the public Recovery Fund.
The fair also welcomed nearly 3,000 students from various educational levels in Thessaloniki and neighbouring prefectures, enriching their educational experience.
Organised by the Hellenic Culture Foundation in collaboration with Greek publishers, TIF-Helexpo, the Central Macedonia Region, and the City of Thessaloniki, the event received support from the Culture Ministry. Additionally, it was co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund as part of the Central Macedonia Regional Business Plan 2021-2027.
(Source: Amna)
