According to Ambassador Roberto Vellano, this 22nd edition shows confidence in the return to normal, after a very difficult period, in which on-site activities suffered cancellations and limitations.

A communiqué signed by the diplomat reiterated the support to actors and entities of the world of the arts, while he assured the implementation of security measures to avoid contagion with Covid-19, such as capacity limitations and the development of activities in virtual platforms.

Celebrated since 1996, the Italian culture week in Cuba pays tribute to historical Italian personalities, such as this year’s tribute to Dante Alighieri, on the 700th anniversary of his death, with the unveiling of a sculpture in the Santo Domingo square, created by National Prize for Plastic Arts José Ramón Villa.

Vellano highlighted the fundamental role of deceased historian of the City of Havana Eusebio Leal Spengler in the development of this annual event, which is an example of the solid relations of collaboration, dialogue and exchange.

The event “does not last only one week, it represents the starting point of more activities that will be developed throughout the year, in the visual arts, cinema, literature, design and performing arts”, the ambassador said in the presentation address.

The event’s agenda includes a round table on the link between Alighieri and Cuba, the award granting of the poster contest dedicated to the writer, the concert of the Ars Longa Ancient Music Ensemble, the presentation of the ‘Divine Comedy’ audiobook and a new edition of ‘Italy and Cuba’, by Fernando Ortiz, among other activities.

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