Today, the 47th International Book Fair - Interliber was inaugurated at Zagreb Fair.

Pavilions 5, 6, 7 and 7a are hosting more than 360 exhibitors from 15 countries. Interliber is the largest literary event in Croatia, where publishers showcase a rich offer of new releases from a wide range of fields.

Over 200 hours of professional and entertaining programmes are prepared on four stages, including workshops, panels, quiz shows, meetings with authors and numerous activities celebrating books and knowledge.

Interliber is supported by the Ministry of Culture and Media of the Republic of Croatia and the City of Zagreb.

The fair was officially opened by Andrej Plenković, Prime Minister of Croatia, who said: "This fair strengthens Croatian publishing, promotes books, authors, reading, science and most importantly, knowledge. So, it is no surprise that the number of exhibitors increases year after year; this year there are 350 from 15 countries. This shows the appeal of Zagreb and Interliber to everyone who enjoys their work and offers new books to the public."

At the opening, Mayor of Zagreb, Tomislav Tomašević, addressed the guests: "Interliber is one of the most important cultural events in Croatia and definitely the largest book fair in the region. Even in the age of digitalization and artificial intelligence, modern technology can sometimes fail. On the other hand, if you take a book and open it, it will never fail. Despite all technological changes, there is still a place for books, as shown by the many visitors who came to Interliber on the first day."

Renata Suša, Zagreb Fair Director, added at the opening: "For the 47th time, Interliber is a venue where authors and readers meet, where people gather to talk, learn, create and celebrate the power of words. Positive, creative energy will spread across all four pavilions - 5, 6, 7 and 7A. You will find 360 exhibitors from 15 countries, with books coming from different cultures but speaking the same language. At 13,000 square meters a true city of books unfolds, with over 200 hours of talks, presentations, workshops and meetings. At the open-air space in front of the pavilion 5 in the rhythm of music and gathering Interliber confirms its festival spirit. Books are not just letters on paper - they are energy that brings people together."

One of this year’s highlights was the virtual appearance of the acclaimed Irish author Paul Lynch, winner of the 2023 Booker Prize, who joined the opening ceremony via video link.

A special programme titled “Let me Tell You a Story - A Fairy Tale in Our Hands” has been created for the youngest visitors, with the core mission of fostering a lifelong love of books from the earliest age by returning the focus to fairy tales. In the gallery of the pavilion 5, a series of interactive and innovative activities will be held every day.

Through workshops, mini pop-up performances and educational games, the programme introduces children to the magical world of stories and encourages the development of reading habits.

Interliber is open until Sunday with free admission.