Arnoldo Mondadori Editore

Arnoldo Mondadori Editore, commonly known as Mondadori, is Italy’s leading publishing house and one of the most influential media groups in Europe. Founded in 1907 by Arnoldo Mondadori, the company has grown from a modest printing shop into a massive conglomerate that defines the Italian literary and educational landscape.
Historical Growth and Architectural Legacy
Based in Segrate, Milan, the company’s headquarters is housed in a world-renowned building designed by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, symbolizing its status as a monument of culture. Over the decades, Mondadori has expanded through strategic acquisitions, incorporating other legendary imprints like Einaudi, Rizzoli, and Piemme, making it the absolute market leader in Italy’s trade and educational sectors.
Revolutionizing the Market: The “Oscar” Imprint
Mondadori’s most significant contribution to mass culture was the 1965 launch of the “Oscar Mondadori” series. By introducing high-quality paperback editions sold at newsstands, the publisher democratized reading in Italy. This initiative broke the elitist barriers of traditional bookstores and allowed the general public access to masterpieces of world literature at affordable prices.
A Portfolio of Literary Giants
Mondadori has always been the home of literary excellence. Its catalog features iconic Italian figures such as Italo Calvino and Cesare Pavese, alongside international legends like Ernest Hemingway and Thomas Mann. The group also dominates the contemporary market, publishing bestsellers across all genres, from prestigious literary fiction to popular thrillers and children’s books (notably the Geronimo Stilton series).
The Modern Era and Retail Power
Today, Mondadori is not just a publisher but a comprehensive cultural operator. It operates Italy’s largest chain of bookstores (Mondadori Retail) and holds a commanding position in the school textbook market. As a publicly traded company on the Borsa Italiana, it continues to innovate in the digital sphere, leading the way in e-books, podcasts, and digital education platforms. Its mission remains the same as its founder’s vision: to promote the spread of culture and ideas to the widest possible audience.