2025-04-23 11:55:00
📚 The celebration of International Book Day It has a very interesting and symbolic story. The April 23 of each year, and was proclaimed by the UNESCO in 1995.
Why April 23?
This day was chosen because it coincides with the death date of three great writers of world literature:
- Miguel de Cervantes (Author of Don Quijote of La Mancha)
- William Shakespeare (Author of Hamlet, Romeo and Julieta among many others)
- Inca Garcilaso de la Vega (Peruvian-Spanish chronicler and historian)
Interestingly, the three died on April 23, 1616 … although there is a small trap:
- Actually, Cervantes He died on April 22 but was buried on 23.
- AND Shakespeare He died on April 23 according to the Julian calendar, which was still used in England, but that would be equivalent to May 3 at the Gregorian calendar.
What is the objective of this day?
The purpose of the International Book Day is:
- Promote the reading.
- Foster the Editorial Industry.
- Recognize the contribution of the authors to the cultural progress of humanity.
In addition, many countries celebrate with activities such as book fairs, public readings, book exchanges, and tributes to writers.
In Catalonia (Spain)for example, the Sant Jordi Day where it is tradition to give a rose and a book. It is one of the most beautiful celebrations related to reading. 🌹📖
