From 7 to 10 May 2026, Scienza e Virgola, the science book festival created and promoted by SISSA’s Interdisciplinary Laboratory, returns to Trieste, marking its tenth anniversary this year. With artistic direction by writer Paolo Giordano, the festival presents a rich programme featuring over 40 public events and 20 invitation-only events across the city and other locations in the region.
This year’s theme, Human, invites reflection on what defines us today as a species, set against the transformations of the Anthropocene and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Through books, theatre and conversations, the festival creates a shared space to explore the relationship between science, society and culture.
Among the guests are Concita De Gregorio, Francesco Costa, Nathacha Appanah, Andrea Bajani and Samah Karaki, alongside many other voices from the contemporary cultural and scientific landscape. All events are free to attend, although booking is required for some.