TThe first Athens International Literature Festival concluded with remarkable public participation and a strong international presence, following three days of events from March 27 to 29, 2026 at Technopolis City of Athens.
Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas, stated:
In recent days, Athens has firmly positioned itself on the global literary map, hosting a vibrant celebration of ideas, dialogue and culture. The first Athens International Literature Festival proved that our city can deliver events of international significance, bringing together leading figures from literature, journalism, sports and cinema. AILF is part of our broader strategy to promote reading and ensure equal access to knowledge. We will continue to implement initiatives that make books part of everyday life. We are building a city that opens both books and horizons.
The President of Technopolis, Kostis Papaioannou, added:
Athens embraced from the very beginning an institution that was missing: an international literature festival that acts as a bridge to the global scene while also giving space to contemporary Greek creativity. Literature remains a vital tool for understanding the world, and our ambition is for AILF to become a stable, annual reference point for the city.
A Global Gathering of Voices
Over three days, thousands of Athenians and visitors from Greece and abroad filled Technopolis, taking part in a dynamic celebration of contemporary literature.
Discussions featuring leading international and Greek authors, journalists and creators addressed some of the most pressing issues of our time, including gender-based violence, the rise of the far right, and the relationship between literature, politics and society. These conversations fostered meaningful reflection and opened a lively public dialogue on the role of literature in contemporary life.
Among the distinguished participants were the 2025 Nobel Laureate László Krasznahorkai, as well as Booker Prize winners Paul Lynch and David Szalay, reinforcing the festival’s international character and high calibre.
They were joined by prominent voices such as Nicole Krauss, Selva Almada, Kevin Barry and Katerina Volckmer, alongside activists and figures from the worlds of literature, cinema and sport, contributing to a rich and multi-layered programme.
Opening and Closing Highlights
The festival opened on Friday, March 27 with a compelling conversation between László Krasznahorkai and New Yorker critic Merve Emre, focusing on the transformative power of his writing.
It concluded on Sunday, March 29 with a powerful panel discussion on racism, featuring former footballer and activist Lilian Thuram, former professional footballer Demis Nikolaidis and Loretta Macauley, founder of the United African Women Organization. The discussion was moderated by journalist and radio producer Panagiotis Menegos.
Mayor Haris Doukas attended the closing ceremony, congratulating the organisers and participants on the success of the inaugural edition and confirming the City of Athens’ commitment to establishing the festival as a major international cultural institution.
Strong Audience Engagement
Throughout the festival, audience response was particularly enthusiastic—not only during the discussions but also during author meet-and-greet sessions, where hundreds of books were signed. These moments highlighted the dynamic connection between writers and readers and the vitality of the reading community.
The programme also featured two standout masterclasses on the creative process with Paul Lynch and Nicole Krauss, guided tours of the Industrial Gas Museum, digital installations by COSMOTE TELEKOM, screenings and events that transformed Technopolis into a vibrant, multidimensional space of exchange and inspiration.
A special section titled “Athens of Writers” paid tribute to renowned Athenian author Menis Koumandareas (1931–2014), one of the most distinctive voices of post-war Greek prose. The tribute was complemented by a literary walk through the city, highlighting locations that shaped his work.
A New Cultural Institution for Athens
The first Athens International Literature Festival leaves behind a meaningful legacy: an open space for ideas, dialogue and connection. At the same time, it lays the foundations for a dynamic future, establishing itself as a new and significant presence on Athens’ cultural map.
The festival was supported by COSMOTE TELEKOM, Natural Mineral Water Arrena, Athenaeum Eridanus Luxury Hotel, Welcome Pickups, Skroutz and the Athens Conservatoire, along with the Embassies and cultural institutes of Ireland, Germany, France and Italy, as well as media partners and volunteers whose contribution proved essential to its success.
