Leonardo Padura, novelist, essayist and one of the most important writers in Latin America, discusses with his translator, Kostas Athanasiou, about his book “Havana: Wandering Through Space and Time”.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hellenic Ibero-American Literature Festival in Athens LEA / Kastaniotis Publishing

A discussion on the work of Aristeidis Archontakis, a creator who successfully balances the rigorous logic of Physics with the deep sensitivity of Literature, leaving his own distinctive mark on contemporary letters.

The author will be joined by:

Michalis Lazaridis, Professor, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete

Chrysoula Skepetzi, visual artist

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Smili Publishing

On the occasion of his recent book In Defence of Difficult Poetry: Interpretative Readings of Modernist Poems, Stamatis Filippidis, Professor Emeritus at the University of Crete, discusses with Angela Kastrinaki, Professor of Modern Greek Literature at the University of Crete, and Giannis Dimitrakakis, Associate Professor of Modern Greek Literature Philology at the University of Crete, the ways in which modern poetry can be read and understood, as well as major Greek and international modernist poets, including such as George Seferis, Odysseas Elytis, Paul Valéry, T. S. Eliot and Paul Éluard

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Sokolis Publishing

Andrew Kania, Professor of Philosophy at Trinity University of San Antonio, on the occasion of his book “ Philosophy of Western Music: A Contemporary Introduction”, discusses about his book The Philosophy of Western Music. He will speak about music as an artistic medium and about as well as the contribution philosophy can make to our understanding of music.

The author will be introduced and interviewed by his publisher, Christina Zisi, before the discussion is opened to the audience.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ekkremes Publishing

Honoured Figure 2026

The 5th Chania Book Festival honours academic teacher and author Stefanos Trachanas.

The era and multifaceted activity—particularly the political activity—of Elisavet V. Kontaxaki in Crete, Syros, Athens and Constantinople. Author Angeliki Karathanassi-Manoussaki discusses her book with Marina Aretaki, Laboratory Teaching Staff at the Department of Philology, University of Crete. Excerpts from the book will be read by Michalis Virvidakis and Marina Panigyraki.

Where human and maritime worlds met in the past, the stories of the Archives of the Sea were born. In these stories, marine creatures, human ingenuity and the compelling tide of history created cultural bridges connecting worlds in conflict and offering hope.

Participants:

Dimitra Mylona, archaeologist–zooarchaeologist, Researcher at the Institute for Aegean Prehistory – Center for East Cretan Studies

Roxani Margariti, Professor of Medieval Maritime History, Center for Middle Eastern and South Asian Studies, Emory University, Georgia, USA

Moderator: Maria Andreadaki-Vlazaki, Honorary Director General of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage and Director of the Kastelli Hill Excavations in Chania.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Archives of the Sea Blog

From the revolutionary realism of Caravaggio to the archetypal journey of Odysseus, Milo Manara’s work constantly moves between contrasting worlds, where beauty coexists with violence, adventure with self-discovery, and myth with history.

On the occasion of the Greek edition of “Caravaggio” and the forthcoming publication of “The Odyssey”, Giannis Iatrou (DocMZ Publishing) and Marios Ioannidis (Chaniartoon Press Publishing) explore the many facets of one of Europe’s most important comics creators.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: DocMZ Publishing / Chaniartoon Press Publishing

“The Laws, or the Great Tradition, or Ancient Wisdom” is the most extensive unpublished (and unfinished) work discovered among the papers of Zissimos Lorentzatos (1915–2004). Beyond their obvious scholarly importance, what might The Laws mean for the contemporary reader?

In discussion:

Yannis Dimitrakakis, Associate Professor of Modern Greek Literature Philology, University of Crete

Dimitris Polychronakis, Professor of Modern Greek Literature, University of Crete

Moderator: Stavros Zoumboulakis, author and President of the Supervisor Board of the National Library of Greece

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Artos Zois Publishing

A discussion on “Lalo Sou Ta”, a volume bringing together historical testimonies concerning the displacement of the people of Famagusta.

Participants:

Matthaios Frantzeskakis (research and interviews)

Chara Andreadou, historian and educational consultant, Scientific Co-Director of the Oral/Local History at the Chania Film Festival

Giannis Margioulas, philologist and secondary-school teacher

Filippos Charalambous, philologist and editor

Welcoming address:
Giannis Chatziioannou, President of the Association of Cypriots of Chania.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

The initiation of a young narrator into love, life and the reality of death. The initiation of readers into psychological darkness and its dissolution through the art of language.

On the occasion of his book “The Writing of the Waves”, Giorgos Papadakis discusses with Marina Aretaki, Laboratory Teaching Staff at the Department of Philology, University of Crete.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hestia Publishing

The figure of Ioannis Kapodistrias also inspired Nikos Kazantzakis, who wrote the play Kapodistrias. What is the significance and relevance of this work today?

Participants:

Sifis Michelogiannis, Former President of the Greek Department of International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis, ISFNK, Honorary Member of ISFNK

Roula Vouraki, Philologist – Author

Konstantinos Kalaitzakis, Ph.D Candidate of Modern Greek Philology at the University of Crete

CO-ORGANIZED BY: International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis (ISFNK)

Serbian author Dragan Velikić, on the occasion of his novel “Bonavia”, discusses with journalist Anastasia Grigoriadou.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

Journalist Petros Katsakos discusses with historian Menelaos Charalambidis regarding the incident that shocked Greek society after the discovery of the photographs depicting the execution of 200 communists at the Kaisariani Shooting Range on 1 May 1944.

What do these images mean for us more than eighty years later? Why did they move Greek society so deeply? Who were the people who walked so defiantly towards death? And why do the events of the Axis Occupation return continuously to the forefront of public debate, reigniting interest but also causing tensions?

On the occasion of the renewed interest in Dostoevsky’s work through Eleni Bakopoulou’s translations for Agra Publishing, author Savvas Michael discusses with publisher Stavros Petsopoulos one of the most important chapters of “The Brothers Karamazov”: “The Grand Inquisitor”.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Agra Publishing

Presentation of the annual issue of “En Chaniois”, published by the Municipality of Chania, featuring the proceedings of the symposium Mikis Theodorakis: Present and Future, held in Chania in December 2025.

In Discussion:

Giannis Giannakakis, Deputy Mayor of Culture, Municipality of Chania

Matthaios Frantzeskakis, Director of Chania Film Festival, publisher and President of Pancretan Association of Friends of Mikis Theodorakis

Varvara Perraki, Philologist

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Municipality of Chania / Pancretan Association of Friends of Mikis Theodorakis

Author Lila Troulinou discusses her novella “Nights with Gabriela” with philologist Sitsa Kotsifaki, reflecting on Rome in the late ‘70s, the search for love in times of despair and the aftermath of student movements.

Excerpts from the book will be read by actress Marina Panigyraki.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Perispomeni Publishing

Giannis Yiannis Doukas presents an extended poem that began as a dialogue with the opening chapter of Ulysses. “Amendments” of the title refer to the Articles 34, 35, 36 and 37 of the Irish Constitution (solemnization of marriage without gender discrimination, the right to abortion and the decriminalization of blasphemy). The poem focuses on youth, citizenship and democracy, examining the ways in which these are threatened. CO-ORGANIZED BY: Polis Publishing

Booker Prize-winning British author Alan Hollinghurst, on the occasion of his novel “The Sparsholt Affair”, discusses with journalist Grigoris Bekos and Kyriaki Beioglou, journalist and member of the Chania Book Festival programming organizing team.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

Author Giannis Nikoloudis and author and film critic Maria Mamaliga discuss the conflicts both within the psyche of the 17-year-old Sephardi heroine of the state-award winning novel “Mercado” (Hestia Publishing, 2024), as well as between tradition and modernity, and between the Allies and the Axis during World War II, in Rhodes, Marmaris, Istanbul and Ashdod.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hestia Publishing

Author Elisavet Chronopoulou discusses her new book with historian Menelaos Charalambidis.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Polis Publishing

Author and historical researcher Christos Machairidis and philologist and author Roula Vouraki discuss the revival of the legendary story of the guard of the Greek flag in Acropolis in April of 1941, on the occasion of the publication of his (Machairidis) research on Konstantinos Koukidis,

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ereisma Publishing

Through children’s literature, parents and children are invited to reimagine their relationship and build bridges of communication. The workshop aims to foster understanding of different perspectives, strengthen empathy and create a shared language between parent and child. In a world where conflict is inevitable, the workshop proposes an alternative path: we do not need to agree in order to coexist.

The workshop will be led by Dimitra Valavani and Despoina Tziaki, educators and storytellers, members of the group “Paramythades En Plo”.

The event is intended for parents and children aged 6–10. Participation is limited to 24 people (12 children accompanied by their parents). Advance registration is required.

Emy Markantonaki, former interpreter at the European Union; Kostas Mavrakakis, President of the “Chrysostomos” Literary Society, architect and editor of the publication; Akis Kapranos, film critic; and Matthaios Frantzeskakis, director of the Chania Film Festival and publisher, discuss the recent publication dedicated to the distinguished cinematographer Walter Lassally, Academy Award-winning Director of Photography, who spent a significant part of his life in Chania.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Pyxida Tis Polis Publishing

History records events; memory records lives. This discussion explores the relationship between official historiography and personal narrative. How does testimony become Literature? What is the value of subjective memory, and when does it become a source of knowledge?

Participants:

Minas Voulgaridis, author, history researcher

Giorgos Limantzakis¸ turkologist, Ph.D in Political Science and History, Panteion University of Social Sciences

Vangelis Maravelakis, Political Scientist, history researcher

Maria Bra, writer

Christos Tsantis, writer and Head of Radamanthys Publishing

Andromachi Chourdaki, philologist and writer

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Radamanthys Publishing

Presentation of the photographic book by Chania-born French photographer and visual artist Nyima Marin.

The artist will be joined by Maria Choulaki, Artistic Director of Photoxenia. Poems will be read by actor, director and playwright Michalis Virvidakis in Greek and by Stella Koutsoupaki in French.

Welcoming speeches:

Stella Koutsoupaki, President of the Hellenic-French Association of Chania

Manolis Pimplis, Director of the Chania Book Festival

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Photoxenia / Hellenic-French Association of Chania

Multi – award-winning French author Caryl Férey, on the occasion of the recent Greek editions of “Grindadráp” and “Okavango”, discusses with Petros Katsakos journalist and author of the book “Istories choris foni/ Stories without a Voice” (Oktana Publishing).

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Agra Publishing

Authors Michalis Almpatis and Lazaros Alexakis meet on common literary ground, where tradition confronts urbanization and the darkness of the human soul is illuminated at times through harsh truth and at other times through satire.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Nisos Publishing / Dioptra Publishing

On the occasion of the publication of “On the Sublime” by Dionysius Longinus, Professor of Ancient Greek Literature at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), Vasileios P. Vertoudakis, discusses with Angela Gioti, Associate Professor of Comparative and Modern Greek Literature at the University of Crete, the fertile concept of the Sublime and its relevance today.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: EPOPS Publishing

A discussion on library reading clubs and their growing impact on Greek society.

In discussion:

Stavros Zoumboulakis, President of the Supervisor Board of the National Library of Greece

Vivi Choudalaki, Head of Libraries and Children’s Creative Centers, Municipality of Chania

Emmanouela Mastoraki, Coordinator of Reading Club of Public Central Library of Rethymno

Chrysa Korkou, Instructor of Children’s Reading Club of Public Central Library of Rethymno

CO-ORGANIZED BY: National Library of Greece / Municipal Library of Chania / Public Central Library of Rethymno

A compelling book that recounts the dramatic journey of two people who, having once been friends, found themselves on opposing sides during the 1940s. Through their lives, the book seeks to shed light on the deep wounds of that turbulent period, which continue to influence contemporary Greek society.

Author and university professor Xenophon I. Contiadis discusses the book with former Member of the European Parliament, Petros Kokkalis. The discussion is moderated by journalist and Member of the Project Team of Chania Book Festival, Kyriaki Beioglou.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Topos Publishing

Author Giannis Nikoloudis discusses his novel with philologist Varvara Perraki.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishing

Professor Emerita (AUTH) Frangiski Ampatzopoulou, recipient of the Grand State Prize for Letters (2018), discusses her recent book devoted to E. Ch. Gonatas with journalist Mikela Chartoulari.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishers / Patakis Publishing

When Artificial Intelligence Simulates Reality. French author Didier Aubourg discusses his novel with:

Giorgos Chalkiadakis, Professor of Artificial Intelligence, Technical University of Crete

Vicky Kollia, philologist and journalist

Despoina Pollanagnostaki, actress and mathematician and

Kostas Dantinakis, translator of the book

CO-ORGANIZED BY: En Athinais Bookshop

Authors Maria Louka and Evariste Pimplis discuss their recent books, focusing on consent, the limits of freedom, sexual trauma and the impact of the MeToo movement on contemporary Greek-language literature. The discussion is moderated by Pavlina Marvin, writer and Member of the Project Team of Chania Book Festival

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Polis Publishing / Kappa Publishing

British-Colombian writer Julianne Pachico discusses her literary work with author and publisher Panagiotis Kechagias, focusing on themes such as memory, violence and cultural identity.

The discussion will be held in English with consecutive interpretation.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: British Council Greece

Booker Prize nominee Italian author Vincenzo Latronico discusses his acclaimed novel “Perfection” with poet Danae Sioziou.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Loggia Publishing

Authors in discussion:

Andreas Apostolidis

Ieronymos Lykaris

Giannis Moschos

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hellenic Crime Writers’ Club

Psychiatrist and former Director of 18 ANO, Katerina Matsa, discusses the history and philosophy of the pioneering drug - free rehabilitation programme together with author Savvas Michael. The programme demonstrates that reintegration is possible through empowerment and art.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Agra Publishing

Yannis Kiourtsakis discusses his latest book, which marks his forty-seven-year presence in the literary world— usually in the form of hybrid autobiographical texts or essays, with the philologist Anna Lambardaki.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishing

Authors Elisavet Chronopoulou and Maria Louka discuss Bernanos’ powerful novella, whose heroine is a 14-year-old, scorned girl who committed suicide without having planned it, published in 1937, yet it remains poignantly relevant today (and the theme is timeless). The discussion is moderated by Stavros Zoumboulakis, President of the Supervisor Board of the National Library of Greece.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Artos Zois Publishing

World War II is by far the bloodiest and most destructive war in History. Although 80 full years have passed, the cost borne by Greece during the war has not been calculated in a scientifically documented manner. Historian Menelaos Charalambidis discusses with journalist Kyriaki Beioglou the issues raised in the collective volume “The Long Night of the Occupation: Human Losses and Material Destruction in Occupied Greece (1941–1944)” / “I makra nyxta tis katohis. Anthropines apoleies kai ylikes katastrophes stin katexhomeni Ellada (1941 -1944), which he edited together with his colleague Stratos N. Dardanas.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Alexandria Publishing

This workshop is aimed particularly at writers at the beginning of their creative journey, in any language, and focuses on the sensitive subject of conflict.

Participants are required to submit in advance a poetic text (poem or poetic prose) of up to 500 words, translated into English. The workshop will be conducted in English.

The session will be led by Alexandra Büchler, Director of Literature Across Frontiers (LAF), with the participation of poet Ghayath Almadhoun and writer-translator Richard Gwyn.

Registration is required. Places are limited to 10 participants and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Literature Across Frontiers (LAF) / Arts Council of Wales

A discussion between Alejandro Palomas and Rodrigo Rey Rosa on their recent literary works, together with translator Kostas Athanasiou and journalist Nikos Kourmoulis.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hellenic Ibero-American Literature Festival in Athens LEA / Kastaniotis Publishing / Opera Publishing

Presentation of the digital platform of Nikos Kazantzakis’ correspondence (letters.kazantzaki.gr), a contemporary research and cultural project that makes 1,000 letters of the author accessible to the public. The presentation will be given by Paraskevi Vasileiadi, Curator of the Museum Collections, Deputy Director and Project Manager of Kazantzakis’ Letters.

The event will also include a screening of the museum’s 2023 mini-documentary I Am Free (Eimai Lefteros), directed by Nikos Pantermarakis.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Nikos Kazantzakis Museum

Author and lawyer Polyna Bana discusses her books with:

Evangelia Fakinou, President of the Court of First Instance of Rethymno

Eleftheria Daskalaki, lawyer and author

The discussion will be moderated by: Giorgos Kortsalioudakis, lawyer. Welcoming speech will be addressed by Agapi Mikrou, President of the Chania Bar Association.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Chania Bar Association / Nikas Publishing / Saixpirikon Publishing

Welcoming speeches will be addressed by:

Dimitris Michelogiannis, Special Adviser to the Governor of Crete

Nadia Argyropoulou, Curator of the Exhibition

Giannis Palavos, Associate Curator and Author

Manolis Pimplis, Director of the Chania Book Festival

ORGANIZED BY: Region of Crete

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Municipality of Chania / Ministry of Culture – Ephorate of Antiquities of Chania, in cooperation with the Cultural Association of Velventos

In the 21st century, we are all called upon to achieve an almost impossible balance between our vulnerable private lives and the lawless sphere of the outside world. And no one can know what lies around the next turn in the rabbit hole.

British author Hari Kunzru, on the occasion of his novel Red Pill (Kreas gia Lykous in Greek edition), discusses these issues with Pavlina Marvin, author and member of the Chania Book Festival organizing team.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Doma Publishing

The family is commonly perceived as a space of protection and affection; yet it is also the first site of conflict, socialisation and the reproduction of social norms.

Participants:

Anna Kallivretaki, Mental Health Counselor and author

Maria Katsikandaraki¸ preschool teacher and author

Charalampos Magoulas, Faculty member at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Nicosia

Dimitra Marangoudaki, Special Education teacher and author

Valia Papadaki, author and philologist

Konstantina Charitaki, teacher and author

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Radamanthys Publishing

Author Apostolos Doxiadis discusses his new novel Blue Dog (Galanoskylos) with journalist Nikos Kourmoulis.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Psichogios Publishing

Author Meryem El Mehdati discusses her novel with journalist Alexandra Christakaki.

Born in Morocco and raised in the Canary Islands, the young author portrays with freshness and humour the challenges faced by those born in the 1990s: workplace alienation, racism and overtourism.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Carnivora Publishing

Booker Prize–shortlisted Irish novelist, playwright and screenwriter Niall Williams chose the fictional village of Faha as the setting for a world filled with deeply human stories. The author discusses his work with journalist and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival, Kyriaki Beioglou.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Doma Publishing

Photographer and author Nikolas Galanis presents his photographic album dedicated to the iconic landscape of Western Crete. He will be joined by Stavros Badogiannis, President of the Chania Mountaineering Club.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Region of Crete

Author Vasilis Gourogiannis discusses his new book with Manolis Pimplis, Director of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Metaichmio Publishing

Author Christiana Lamprinidi and Welsh writer and translator Richard Gwyn discuss their books “Smyrna of the Many and the All” “Smyrni ton pollon kai ton olon” and “Ambassador of Nowhere: A Latin American Pilgrimage”. The discussion will be moderated by Pavlina Marvin, author and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hestia Publishing / Literature Across Frontiers / Arts Council of Wales

A discussion on the complete body of work of author and translator Achilleas Kyriakidis, in conversation with journalist, author and editor of e-magazine O Anagnostis, Giannis Baskozos.

Award-winning Nigerian-born author Abi Daré discusses her work and the major themes of her novels with poet Danae Sioziou.

The discussion will be held in English with consecutive interpretation.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: British Council Greece

On the occasion of her novel “Audition”, American novelist Katie Kitamura discusses with journalist Eleonora Orfanidou the multiple versions of the self, the roles we adopt in our relationships, and the blurred boundaries between desire, truth and interpretation.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Dioptra Publishing / Hellenic American Union

Author Thrasos Kaminakis discusses his book “Islands at Heart” / “Kata vathos nisia” with journalist Giouli Tsakalou.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

A discussion inspired by the books “The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine” by Ilan Pappé, “A History of Modern Iran” by Ervand Abrahamian and “United States of War” by David Vine.

Participants:

Nikos Gryspolakis, regenerative farmer and water management engineer

Lambrini Thoma¸ journalist

Charalampos Magoulas, Faculty member at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Nicosia

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Salto Publishing

Starting from the exhibition of Takis Giannousas, Emerita Professor (AUTH) Frangiski Abatzopoulou, the Curator of the Exhibition Nadia Argyropoulou and author Giannis Palavos discuss the concept of deviation in Greek literature and art, and the eccentric figures who challenged established norms and redefined them.

Through the narrative power of literature and songwriting, three musicians on stage follow the thread of summer as it appears in poems set to music, songs and prose texts.

Conceived and performed by musicians:

Sophie Lies

naxakis g.

Kreon Kanakaris

Dimitra Valavani, Angeliki Bemplidaki, Nikos Blazakis, Stella Rozaki and Despoina Tziaki narrate traditional folk tales in which the familiar and the unknown coexist in stories filled with symbolism, wisdom and unexpected twists.

A storytelling performance for adult audiences, celebrating the enduring power of oral tradition and the magic of folk tales.

11:00-12:00

Social Stereotypes and Translation

Translators in discussion:

Kostas Athanasiou

Achilleas Kyriakidis

Krystalli Glyniadaki

12:00-13:00

Gender and Translation

Participants:

Efi Giannopoulou

Christiana Lamprinidi

Richard Gwyn

The discussion will be moderated by Alexandra Büchler.

13:00-14:00

Translating Japanese Poetry, or Why Japanese Has No Capital Letters

A masterclass with writer, documentary filmmaker and translator from Japanese Panagiotis Evangelidis.

Yannis Hamilakis, archaeologist and Professor at Brown University (USA), discusses with writers Hari Kunzru and Maurice Attia. The discussion is moderated by Manolis Pimplis, Director of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Doma Publishing / Polis Publishing

Stories suspended between reality and fantasy, mythology, science and fiction. Unexpected and unimaginable encounters in the depths of the oceans and the shallows of sorrow. Giannis Paschos discusses his book with journalist and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival Kyriaki Beioglou.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Perispomeni Publishing

Historian Tasos Sakellaropoulos and writer Ieronymos Lykaris discuss the book.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

Authors Katerina Iliopoulou and Panagiotis Evangelidis explore the relationship between the contemporary city, the social phenomena that shape it, and the transformative power of literature. The discussion will be moderated by Pavlina Marvin¸ writer and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Gennitria Publishing / Hestia Publishing

A discussion on the translation of this landmark feminist work with:

Efi Giannopoulou, translator

Danae Sioziou, poet

Maria Louka writer and documentary filmmaker

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ektos Grammis Publishing

On the occasion of her new work, which explores the complex ramifications of grief, writer Ersi Sotiropoulos discusses with journalist Giannis Pantazopoulos.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishing

Who are today’s intellectuals? What dialogue are they engaged in, and on which issues? How do they illuminate overlooked aspects of contemporary reality through their work? Author of the book Mikela Chartoulari discusses these questions with Pavlina Marvin, writer and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Polis Publishing

In discussion:

Anna Karakatsouli, Professor of European History and Culture, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA)

Giannis Pantelakis, writer and journalist

Giorgos Siakantaris, sociologist, writer and literary critic

The discussion will be moderated by journalist, Natali Hatziantoniou.

A portrayal of the multiple dimensions of Greek migration during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.

In discussion:

Athina Rossoglou, translator and historian specialising in diaspora studies

Nikos Kastrinakis, President of the World Council of Cretans

Niki Troullinou, author

The discussion will be moderated by journalist and communications specialist, Elia Koumi.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Pyxida tis Polis Publishing

Stavros Theodorakis, in collaboration with Aris Vourvoulias, investigates and presents detailed evidence on fourteen crucial issues facing contemporary Greece.

The authors are joined by:

Giannis Pantazopoulos, journalist

Christos Chomenidis, author

Panagiotis Simandirakis, Mayor of Chania

The discussion will be moderated by journalist, Eftychia Pentaraki.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Metaichmio Publishing

On the occasion of her literary debut “They Call Us Something Else on the Road” / “Sto dromo mas fonazoun allios”, writer and Die Zeit journalist Laura Cwiertnia discusses with poet and translator Krystalli Glyniadaki.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Loggia Publishing

Writers Nikos Galanis and Giorgos Matalliotakis discuss the fine line separating digital progress from algorithmic control.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Enantia Publishing

Poet Ghayath Almadhoun reads and discusses his poetry with poet Lena Kallergi and Katerina Iliopoulou, poet and Director of the literary journal FRMK.

The discussion will be held in English. Poems will be read in both languages.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Literature Across Frontiers (LAF)

Jonathan Coe discusses his novel “Maria, the Woman of Coincidences”, his literary work, his relationship with Greece, and his Greek readership with journalist Xenia Kounalaki and translator Alkistis Trimperi.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Polis Publishing

What can a new edition reveal about a globally acclaimed poet?

Catalan Hellenist and translator of Cavafy, Eusebi Ayensa, presents the extensive research behind the new two-volume edition of Cavafy’s poems and discusses with Manolis Pimplis how Cavafy continues to engage with the present and inspire readers around the world.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Dioptra Publishing

On evil and its unexpected transformations. The author discusses her book with journalist, Grigoris Bekos.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

Australian writer Dominic Amerena discusses his novel with writer and publisher Panagiotis Kechagias. The discussion will be held in English without interpretation.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Gennitria Publishing

In dialogue with Takis Giannousas’ exhibition (Ta Paia Epigan Periato, Agios Rokkos), writer Giannis Palavos and singer-songwriter Maria Papageorgiou read prose texts and poems from Greek literature devoted to eccentric, unconventional and outsider figures.

Maria Papageorgiou will also perform songs inspired by the theme.

Screening of the award-winning documentary The Man Who Disturbed the Universe, directed by Stavros Psyllakis, dedicated to the poet who, after spending many years in the Chania Psychiatric Hospital, “disturbed the harmony of the universe”.

A discussion on Kokkinidis’ poetry follows with:

Vicky Tsourtou, Associate Professor of Developmental Psychology, University of Crete

Angela Gioti, Associate Professor of Modern Greek Literature, University of Crete

Stavros Psyllakis

Nikos Vittis, composer of the film’s music

Readings from the poet’s work by Pavlina Marvin, writer and member of the Chania Book Festival organizing team.

Part I: Presentation of OSDEL’s recent research on Greek book production.

Speaker: Mirella Batziania, Content and Bibliographic Database Manager of OSDEL’s BookPoint.

Part II: A discussion dedicated to the possibilities for the international promotion of Greek literature, translations, and the contemporary challenges of opening the Greek book to the world.

In discussion:

Nikos Bakounakis, President of the Hellenic Foundation for Books and Culture

Adriana Martínez, Director of the Hellenic Ibero – American Literature Festival in Athens LEA

Anna Pataki, publisher

Ersi Sotiropoulos, writer

Krystalli Glyniadaki, poet and translator

Maria Papaioannou, Head of Arts, British Council Greece

Manolis Pimplis, Director of the Chania Book Festival

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hellenic Foundation for Books and Culture / Greek Collecting Society for Literary Works

Doctor Christos Georgalas, who took part in a humanitarian mission to Gaza in spring 2025 and is the author of “Gaza Diaries” / “Imerologia Gazas”, discusses the situation in the Middle East with poet Ghayath Almadhoun, of Syrian and Palestinian origin, and Swedish writer and journalist Catrin Ormestad, who specialises in the Middle East. The discussion will be moderated by Efi Giannopoulou, translator.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Literature Across Frontiers / Topos Publishing

Students of the 1st Experimental Junior High School of Chania present Danae Sioziou’s third poetry book, “Letters” “Epistoles”, and discuss it with the author.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Antipodes Publishing

A tribute event dedicated to the personality and multifaceted work of Chania poet Leonidas Kakaroglou.

Participants:

Tasos Sakellaropoulos, historian

Nikos Davvetas, author

Giannis Giannakakis, Deputy Mayor for Culture, Municipality of Chania

The conversation will be moderated by philologist Anna Lambardaki.

Modern Greek literature scholar and novelist Eleni Giannakaki discusses her new novel “Cretan Pilaf” “Kritiko Pilafi” with journalist Mikela Chartoulari.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishing

Professor of International Relations and Religion in the Middle East Sotiris Roussos discusses with journalist Panos Charitos the power relations in the Middle East and the multi-layered framework needed to understand developments in the region, on the occasion of his two most recent books, “The Middle East and the War in Gaza” “I Mesi Anatoli kai o Polemos sti Gaza” and “Revolution and Revolt in the Middle East” “Epanastasi kai Exegersi sti Mesi Anatoli”.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Gutenberg Publishing / Erma Publishing

The need and desire for coexistence as a central question of our time.

Participants:

Nikos Sgouromallis, PhD candidate in Modern Greek Literature

Maria Sachpasidi (Sophie Lies), singer-songwriter and music educator

Giorgos Nikiforakis, psychologist

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Saligari Magazine

Psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Savvas Savvopoulos and journalist and writer Giannis Pantelakis discuss the therapeutic power of narrative and the ways in which literature approaches psychic trauma.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Papadopoulos Publishing / Themelio Publishing

On the occasion of her new, sharp socio-political work, Lena Divani discusses with Eleni Kechagioglou, philologist and publishing editor.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishing

Hanan Ashrawi*, distinguished Palestinian politician, legislator and writer, with a long-standing presence in the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) and the Palestinian National Council (PNC), and Gideon Levy, Israeli writer and leading columnist for Haaretz, analyse the new reality taking shape in the Gaza Strip.

They shed light on political dynamics, the anxieties of both societies, the dangerous acceptance of violence and the shrinking of the peace movement. At the same time, they seek answers as to whether realistic prospects for coexistence between the two peoples still exist for the day after.

The conversation will be moderated by journalist and war correspondent, Panos Charitos.

* Hanan Ashrawi will participate online.

Five writers — Fotini Tsalikoglou, Giannis Makridakis, Elena Maroutsou, Maria A. Ioannou and Ersi Sotiropoulos — discuss how conflict, whether social, cultural or existential, is reflected in contemporary literature.

The discussion will be moderated by author, Kyriakos Charitos.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hestia Publishing / Ikaros Publishing / Nefeli Publishing / Patakis Publishing / Kastaniotis Publishing

At the edge of silence, a journey across three centuries of women’s experience. The author discusses her book with journalist Alexandra Chaini.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

Journalists Stavros Theodorakis and Pavlos Tsimas discuss the creator whose songs are inhabited by contemporary Greece.

Moderator and respondent:

Eleni Kechagioglou, philologist and editor of the book

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishing

On the alarming drift of international developments towards aggressive nationalism, militarism and war, journalist and author Petros Papakonstantinou discusses his book with Christos Belbas, President of the Association of Secondary Education Teachers of Chania. The discussion will be moderated by journalist Petros Katsakos.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Topos Publishing

Poet Yiouli Volanaki and poet Nikos Galanis read poems from their most recent books, “Menologio” / “Minologio”, “Yfainontas Thrafsmata” / “Yfainontas Thravsmata” and “Sharpened Wings” “Akonise ftera” respectively, and discuss the main thematic axes of their work. The discussion will be moderated by journalist, Anna Routsi.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Thraka Publishing / Enantia Publishing

How does the horror of war reach our screens, and what is the real cost of information? Journalists Pavlos Tsimas, Xenia Kounalaki, Panos Charitos and Petros Katsakos open a live discussion on the world’s ongoing war fronts. Drawing on their experience, they analyse the mechanisms of news production, the challenge of fake news and the role of the media in shaping public opinion. The discussion will be moderated by journalist and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival, Kyriaki Beioglou.

Author Vasiliki Vourda, Director of the Centre for Greek Language and Culture “Ellinomathia” in Reggio Calabria, speaks on the occasion of her book about Greek Calabria, its language, songs and customs.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Oselotos Publishing

On the occasion of the Crete University Press series China – History and Culture, Chloe Balla, Professor of Ancient Philosophy at the University of Crete, discusses with Pantelis Golitsis, Associate Professor of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki; Stefano Gandolfo, Director of Columbia Global Center Athens; and Anna Baka, Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Law, Charles University, Prague.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Crete University Press / Centre of Ancient Greek and Chinese Culture

Heatwave, balconies in Petralona, secret glances. The complexity of connection with the other through the eyes of Giorgos Symbardis. The author discusses his book with book critic Alexandra Chaini.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Metaichmio Publishing

A heartfelt confession on the occasion of writer and songwriter Thomas Korovinis’ book “Letter to Brother Giorgos Ioannou Who Has Been Away for Years in Glavani” “Gramma ston adelfo Giorgo Ioannou pou leipei xronia sti Gklavani”.

The author will be joined by:

Nikos Davvetas, author

Evi Koutroumbaki, philologist and writer

With the participation of Kreon Kanakaris, singer-songwriter.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Agra Publishing

Poets Maria A. Ioannou and Krystalli Glyniadaki read their poems and discuss the themes of their work with journalist Anna Routsi.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publishing / Nefeli Publishing / Polis Publishing

The workshop will refer to creators who distinguished themselves both in the visual arts and in writing, as well as to works that incorporated elements from both art forms.

Participants will draw inspiration from paintings and photographs and will write texts, which they will then share with the group. Participation in the workshop requires booking one of the 15 available places.

The activity is inspired by the book Liberty by Melina Iliopoulou and Maria Yiassa, which becomes a means of highlighting the value of dreams, shared goals and collective creativity. At the end, children will express their journey through a short text or a drawing. Participation in the workshop requires booking one of the 20 available places.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Papadopoulos Publishing

A masterclass dedicated to the challenges posed by social media for writers: the formation of their public image, online communities of readers, and the communication of literature in the digital age. The masterclass will be held by Anastasia Yannacopoulou, Assistant Professor at the University of Western Macedonia and Head of Digital Communications of the Chania Book Festival.

The unseen history of the summer of 1974 comes to light through revealing documents and material from a personal archive. Historian Tasos Sakellaropoulos, who wrote the introductions and commentary for the book, discusses it with Manolis Pimplis, Director of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Metaichmio Publishing

Students of the 4th General High School of Chania present Yannis Makridakis’ book “The Fall of Kostantia” “I alosi tis Konstantias”and discuss it with the author.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hestia Publishing

Sissy Papathanasiou, historian, writer and Director of Letters at the Ministry of Culture, and Vasilis Sabatakakis, Associate Professor of Modern Greek Studies at Lund University and President of the European Society of Modern Greek Studies, present the Ministry of Culture’s commemorative publication for “Lord Byron Year 2024”, marking 200 years since the Exodus of Messolonghi.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Directorate of Letters – Ministry of Culture

A discreet, witty and tender portrait of a family falling apart and of a society undergoing dramatic change. Author Eric Chacour discusses his book with its translator, Stella Zoumboulaki.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Metaichmio Publishing

A discussion on Eric Mukendi’s book, which explores family, migration, social acceptance and personal growth. The author discusses the book with Varvara Roussou, literary critic and permanent faculty member at the Athens School of Fine Arts, and Zizi Saliba, PhD historian-economist and publisher.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Thines Publishing

Can AI kill loneliness?

On the occasion of her new novel, the author discusses with Marina Aretaki, Laboratory Teaching Staff Member at the Department of Philology, University of Crete.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Kastaniotis Publishing

A contemporary discussion on the importance of philology, on the occasion of the tribute volume dedicated to Christina Dounia.

Participants:

Christina Dounia, Professor Emerita of Modern Greek Philology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), writer

Dimitris Angelatos, Professor Emeritus of Modern Greek Literature and Literary Theory, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA)

Giannis Dimitrakakis, Associate Professor of Modern Greek Philology, University of Crete

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Hestia Publishing

On the occasion of the publication of “Vatrachomyomachia”, the verse parody of the Iliad, distinguished storyteller Agni Stroubouli discusses with Pavlina Marvin, writer and member of the organizing team of the Chania Book Festival, the Trojan War raging in a lake between mice and frogs.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Potamos Publishing

French-Algerian psychiatrist, psychoanalyst and writer Maurice Attia, one of the most important voices in contemporary French noir, discusses his latest book in Greek, “The Colours of Revenge”, with Manolis Pimplis, Director of the Chania Book Festival.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Polis Publishing

On the occasion of the publication of Iosif Alygizakis’ book “The Story Before History: A Novel of Self-Knowledge” “I Istoria prin tin Istoria: ena mythistorima autognosias” the author discusses with philologist Dionysia Karavasileiadi social inequalities and the need for society to treat individuals equally.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ereisma Publishing

On the occasion of his new autobiographical work, writer Christos Chomenidis discusses with Filou Mavrodellou, coordinator of the Reading Club of the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and French-language teacher.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Patakis Publishing

Widely translated Danish poet and prose writer Martin Glaz Serup discusses his work with his translator Sotiris Souliotis and reads his poems (Greek translation by S. Souliotis). They will also discuss Martin Glaz Serup’s recent novel Del af livet (A Part of Life), published in Denmark in 2025 and not yet translated into Greek.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Melani Publishing

The two authors discuss their recent books.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Ikaros Publications / Patakis Publishers / Ikaros Publishing / Patakis Publishing

A discussion on his writing and the publications of the National Research Foundation “Eleftherios K. Venizelos”, where he served as Director General and Chairman of its Executive Committee.

In discussion:

Tasos Sakellaropoulos, historian

Stratis Bournazos, historian

Nikos Kalogeris, Deputy Regional Governor of Chania

The discussion will be moderated by Director General of the National Research Foundation “Eleftherios K. Venizelos”, Giorgos Koukourakis.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: National Research Foundation “Eleftherios K. Venizelos”

Writer and journalist Konstantinos Poulis discusses his recent book with journalist Alexandra Christakaki.

CO-ORGANIZED BY: Gutenberg Publishing

Exhibition of Works by Self-Taught Folk Painter Takis Giannousas (1923–2010)

The exhibition presents works by self-taught folk painter Takis Giannousas from Velventos, Kozani, an artist who developed an entirely personal visual universe in which memories of rural life, everyday experience, history, religious imagination, and memories of the German Occupation and the Greek Civil War coexist in dense, colourful compositions.

Through more than twenty works, exhibited for the first time outside Velventos, visitors will discover a remarkable example of modern Greek folk art and a unique visual archive of twentieth-century provincial Greece.

Exhibition duration: 19 June – 12 July 2026
Opening hours: Daily, 10:00–13:00 and 19:00–22:00
Opening: Thursday, 25 June, 18:30, Agios Rokkos

Curator: Nadia Argyropoulou
Curatorial Associate: Giannis Palavos
Coordination: Zoe Georgoula, Production Coordinator, 5th Chania Book Festival

ORGANIZED BY: Region of Crete
Co-organized by: Municipality of Chania; Ministry of Culture – Ephorate of Antiquities of Chania
In cooperation with: Velventos Cultural Association

A special encounter between literature and theatre.

Every evening at 21:00, excerpts from works by contemporary writers will come to life in Neoria Square, behind the Mikis Theodorakis Theatre, creating an atmosphere in which the written word is transformed into a live experience.

Specifically:

Tuesday, 23 June & Wednesday, 24 June

“I Was There Too, in Orphalezia”

Direction and instruction by Stella Skordara.

Thursday, 25 June

Dramatic Reading based on the book “Beyond Consent” by Evariste Pimplis

Selection of excerpts, direction and presentation by Stellina Ioannidou.

Saturday, 27 June

“I Was Not Made for War”

A performance of words and memory featuring:

Fani Georgakaki

Emmanouil Stefanoudakis

All performances last approximately 20 minutes.

10:00–14:00 and 18:00–21:00 (except public holidays)

1. “The People and the Work”

An exhibition dedicated to the history of the Cultural Centre, featuring archival material from its earliest productions.

The newspaper Haniotika Nea participates through material from its archive.

2. Rare Book Editions Exhibition

An exhibition of rare editions, including first editions, signed editions and unique copies, highlighting our intellectual heritage under the gaze of major literary and cultural figures.

Participating institutions include:

Chania Municipal Library

Lyceum Club of Greek Women – Chania Branch

alongside private collectors.

3. “The Covers”

An exhibition of designed book covers by painter Yannis Valavanidis.

The exhibition was first presented at the National Bank of Greece Cultural Foundation (MIET) from June to September 2015 under the title “The Art of the Book Cover.”

Exhibition material courtesy of art historian Martha-Elli Christofoglou.

Exhibition Organization and Curation: Lefteris Lambrakis
Collaborators: Anna Lambardaki – Maria Michelogianni

Group guided tours for children and adults are available by appointment.

Admission is free.

“Interpretive Path: Black and White – Conflict or Encounter of Worlds? Light or Darkness?”

Friday, 26 June | 18:00–20:00

Inspired by the book A Child of Books, participants explore the power of contrast between light and darkness.

Through words and art, every conflict is transformed into a luminous bridge of communication and creativity.

Advance registration is required for the 25 available places.

“Interpretive Path: The Silken Thread That Connects Us”

Saturday, 27 June | 10:30–13:00

Inspired by Kyriakos Charitos’ book To Metaxenio (The Silken Thread), participants explore adolescence, transformation and family relationships.

Advance registration is required for the 25 available places.

“Alekos Fassianos – Karolos Kampelopoulos: An Acquaintance in Paris”

The exhibition opens on Saturday, 29 November at 18:00.

The initiative belongs to Stella Koutsoupaki, Director of the “Karolos’ Monastery” Museum, and is organized in collaboration with the Hellenic-French Association of Chania, with the generous support of:

Region of Crete

Regional Unit of Chania

Regional Development Fund of Crete

Municipality of Chania

The exhibition is held under the auspices of the Embassy of France in Greece.

The collection of the “Karolos’ Monastery” Museum includes, among many other masterpieces, works by renowned Greek artist Alekos Fassianos, forming a small but significant part of the vast collection patiently assembled over the years by artist and celebrity hairdresser Karolos Kampelopoulos.

Opening Hours

Visits are always accompanied by a guided tour (approximately one hour).

Tuesday – Wednesday – Thursday – Saturday: 10:00–14:00
Wednesday – Friday: 18:00–21:00