Sanremo: The Festival That Shaped Italian Music and Culture
For lovers of music, culture and Italian tradition, Sanremo is a timeless and iconic highlight
The 2025 edition of the Sanremo Festival has just concluded, marking yet another unforgettable "Santa settimana di Sanremo“ („sacred week of Sanremo"), as Italians affectionately call it. This prestigious event, often referred to as Italy's musical soul, has not only been a cornerstone of Italian music culture but also an inspiration to international music festivals.
The 2025 Edition and Olly's Victory
The latest edition saw Olly, a 23-year-old singer-songwriter, crowned the winner with his song "Balorda Nostalgia" (Bittersweet Nostalgia). His victory grants him the opportunity to represent Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025.
Carlo Conti, this year’s host who was also the artistic director of the 2025 edition, played an important role in shaping the event’s creative direction, ensuring that the festival maintained its prestigious status while remaining relevant to modern audiences. Conti added his unique charm to the show, making it a true spectacle. However, as with any cultural phenomenon, controversies and debates have been a constant companion. Whether it’s the selection of songs, the judging panel, or the ever-popular "Sanremo polemics“, the festival never fails to ignite discussions and the 2025 edition was no exception.
Unexpected Surprises and Personal Favorites of the 2025 Edition
While Olly’s victory was celebrated, Giorgia’s unexpected sixth-place finish left many questioning the fairness of the competition. Known for her extraordinary vocal ability, Giorgia had been a favorite for many, including myself, with her outstanding song “La cura per me”. Her omission from the top ranks led to a flurry of debates, with some calling for a reevaluation of the voting system. This controversy took on a life of its own, reflecting Italy's passion for music and competition.
Of course, no festival would be complete without a few more surprises. Achille Lauro, a fan favorite known for his avant-garde performances, was another artist whose placement left fans scratching their heads. Despite delivering a standout performance, he ended up in seventh place, far below expectations. Meanwhile, I must also mention my personal favorite, The Kolors, whose energetic presence was refreshing, although they too didn't land at the top spot.
But in the end, the festival’s true value lies in the music and the winning song, while contested, was one that resonated with the audience and gave them something to celebrate. The combination of emotion, artistry and the shared experience of music is what makes Sanremo so significant in Italy's cultural fabric.
Sanremo's Legacy and Cultural Significance
Sanremo, which began in 1951, is far more than just a music competition. It is a cultural phenomenon, a celebration of Italian identity, and a symbol of national pride. Over the years, the festival has grown into one of the most important and influential events in the Italian entertainment calendar. What sets Sanremo apart is its role in launching the careers of countless Italian artists while shaping the country's music landscape. It has not only served as a platform for showcasing musical talent but also as a reflection of Italy’s evolving social and political atmosphere.
Timeless Songs and Iconic Artists Born at Sanremo
Over the decades, beside beautiful and everlasting songs, Sanremo has introduced numerous legendary presenters who have become synonymous with the festival itself. The charismatic Pippo Baudo, who hosted the festival many times, is perhaps the most iconic figure in Sanremo’s history. However, others such as the dynamic Mike Buongiorno, the ever-popular Amadeus and this year’s host Carlo Conti have also left their indelible mark on the festival.
Sanremo’s history is marked by the birth of timeless songs that have become iconic both in Italy and abroad. One of the most famous examples is Domenico Modugno’s „Nel blu dipinto di blu“ (better known as „Volare“), which won the festival in 1958 and went on to become a global anthem, forever cementing Modugno’s legacy.
The festival has also played a crucial role in launching the careers of legendary Italian artists, such as Eros Ramazzotti, whose breakthrough song „Adesso tu“ debuted at Sanremo in 1986, propelling him to international stardom. Another iconic artist whose career was launched by Sanremo is Laura Pausini, who won the festival in 1993 with her powerful ballad „La solitudine“, a song that made her a household name not only in Italy but also internationally.
In addition to the aforementioned artists from Sanremo Festival, Måneskin, the Italian rock band, achieved international acclaim by winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2021 with their song "Zitti e buoni". Their victory not only brought them global recognition but also highlighted the diverse musical talent emerging from Italy. Alongside these legends, Sanremo has introduced countless other artists and evergreen Italian songs that remain beloved to this day.
Sanremo's Global Influence And It's Eternal Charm
Why Sanremo? The festival takes place in the charming coastal town of Sanremo, located in the Liguria region. Its glamorous setting, set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean, has played a vital role in enhancing the festival's allure. Sanremo’s picturesque beauty, combined with the festival’s glittering history, makes it the ideal venue for an event of this magnitude. The festival is broadcast live on Italian television and followed by millions of viewers, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone.
Teatro Ariston in Sanremo has been the main venue for the Sanremo Music Festival since 1977. Before that, the festival was held at the Sanremo Casino from its inception in 1951 until 1976.
From its humble beginnings to its global influence, Sanremo continues to be more than just a music competition. It’s a celebration of Italy’s creativity, a place where legends are made and an ongoing dialogue about Italy’s evolving cultural identity. Each year, the festival remains a powerful reminder of the enduring love Italians have for their music and their art. And as long as it continues to unfold in the beautiful town of Sanremo, its place in history is assured.
For those who are passionate about music, culture and Italian tradition, this "sacred week" will forever remain a cherished highlight. Long after the lights fade on the final night, the echoes of Sanremo continue to reverberate, shaping the future of music festivals worldwide.