The culture ministry launched the initiative last year, with the aim of encouraging Italian cities to execute projects that promote reading and literacy.
Twenty-three cities participated in the 2021 edition, and six reached the final.
Vibo Valentia beat Ariano Arpino, Caltanisetta, Campobasso, Cesena and Pontremoli to take out the top prize.
“The city has distinguished itself for the quality of the initiatives presented, set out clearly, with rigour and enthusiasm,” Franceschini said.
Franceschini added that the winning idea had been “to make books enter people’s lives in a very powerful way”.
“We are certain that this concept will be translated into virtuous behaviour destined to leave a lasting mark,” he said.
The city will receive €500,000 to fund the realisation of the winning projects presented in the competition.
“I have never been so excited,” Vibo Mayor Maria Limardo said.
“Our city is a beautiful city; rich, full of heritage, full of extraordinary beauty, but above all, full of so many beautiful people who read, who write, who are knowledgeable and who identify with their hometown.”
