The first Italian school named after Maestro Camilleri

A few days ago we celebrated the birthday of Master Camilleri, one of the most important pens of Italian literature, who passed away on 17 July 2019. In Sicily, in Favara, in the Agrigento area, a school to Andrea Camilleri, in recognition of his work.

A school with the name of Maestro Camilleri

In Favara, in the Agrigento area, the first school was named after Andrea Camilleri, the great writer appreciated for his novels and creator of the character of Inspector Montalbano. This is the comprehensive school of Favara, a city known for its Easter cake made with almond paste, pistachios and more. Camilleri was from Empedocle, a nearby town in Agrigento. A dutiful tribute to this writer wanted by the top of the school management.

For the occasion, Poste Italiane has created a special philatelic cancellation with an ad hoc station inside the institute.

The naming ceremony

The ceremony, by will of the school director of the Rosetta Morreale comprehensive institute, was celebrated on the writer's birthday on 6 September who would have turned 98 years old. A derogation from the rule which establishes that at least ten years must elapse after his death has allowed the IC to be named after Maestro Camilleri.

The city authorities were present and above all the granddaughter of the master, the writer Ariadne Mortelliti and the Bersaglieri fanfare that performed with traditional songs and pieces.

A bronze bust by the Agrigento sculptor Peppe Cacocciola has also been placed in the complex dedicated to the writer. Furthermore, a mural was also created.

The will to enhance the work of Maestro Camilleri

Here are the words of the headteacher who strongly wanted this naming:

“With the dedication of the comprehensive Institute to the figure of Andrea Camilleri and of the four complexes to the figures of “Antonio Russello”, “Bersagliere Giuseppe Urso”, “Luigi Pirandello” and “Mendola‐Vaccaro” it was understood value the testimonies of life of characters who, despite the diversity of their respective roles, have given a significant example of attachment to a sense of duty and generosity towards the community and their fellow citizens".