Italian Creativity Takes Center Stage in Beirut This June, Strengthening Cultural Bonds Between Lebanon and Italy

The Italian Cultural Institute of Beirut is ushering in the summer season with a dynamic lineup of artistic events that highlight not only Italy’s creative spirit but also the deep and enduring cultural ties between Italy and Lebanon. Throughout June 2025, Lebanese audiences will experience an eclectic mix of Italian cinema, contemporary art, and experimental music—further cementing the shared values and mutual appreciation that define relations between the two Mediterranean countries.

While economic and trade cooperation between Italy and Lebanon continues to flourish—evidenced by ongoing business partnerships and Italy’s prominent participation in major trade exhibitions—the month of June stands as a testament to the vital role cultural diplomacy plays in strengthening bilateral relations.

A Season of Art, Dialogue, and Innovation

Under the theme "Culture in Motion. Ideas in Bloom," the Italian Cultural Institute has curated a diverse program of events designed to inspire, provoke, and connect.

Cabriolet Film Festival – “Disobey” | 6–8 June
As part of Lebanon’s celebrated open-air film festival, the Italian selection this year explores themes of rebellion, identity, and freedom through a collection of short films. Screenings will take place across the country—from Beirut’s iconic St. Nicolas Stairs to Saida, Tyre, Byblos, Zahle, and beyond—reflecting Italy’s commitment to cultural accessibility and dialogue.

Artist Talk: Rä di Martino – The Archive and the Dystopian | 18 June
Renowned Italian contemporary artist Rä di Martino will join Lebanese audiences at the Beirut Art Center for a thought-provoking discussion on archives, speculative narratives, and inclusive art practices.

Exhibition: Rä di Martino – Electric Whispers | From 24 June
Following the talk, di Martino’s solo exhibition opens at the Beirut Art Center. Through video, photography, and 3D animation, the show blends reality and virtuality, offering new works inspired by her time in Lebanon.

Concert: Other Sequences – A Tribute to Luciano Berio | 26 June
The Syntax Ensemble will perform a bold reinterpretation of Berio’s musical legacy, merging traditional string arrangements with live electronic soundscapes. Hosted at the First Armenian Evangelical Church in Clemenceau, the concert highlights Italy’s ongoing contribution to contemporary classical music.

Live Performance: Clara Belladone & Maurilio Cacciatore | 27 June
Held at the Couvent de la Visitation-Philokalia in Aintoura, this concert promises an immersive exploration of experimental sound—spanning from Berio to Sani—with viola and electronics in dialogue.

A Shared Mediterranean Spirit

These cultural initiatives underscore the vibrant and multifaceted nature of Italy–Lebanon relations. “Where Italy meets Lebanon, culture sparks conversations,” says the team behind the Italian Cultural Institute of Beirut. Through arts and dialogue, the Institute continues to build bridges, celebrating a shared Mediterranean heritage that transcends borders.

For more information and event details, follow the Italian Cultural Institute on social media. Let June be a month of discovery.