Nottetempo

Nottetempo Edizioni, founded in Rome in 2002 by Ginevra Bompiani and Roberta Einaudi, is a jewel of independent Italian publishing. The name, meaning “In the night-time,” reflects a space for reflection, dreams, and quiet intellectual labor. From its inception, the house has been guided by the principle of “lightness”—producing books that are physically light but intellectually substantial.

The “Light Book” Innovation

Nottetempo revolutionized the Italian market with its signature small-format books. These slim volumes were designed to be portable and accessible, challenging the traditional idea that profound thought requires thick, heavy tomes. This aesthetic choice made Nottetempo a favorite among urban intellectuals and young readers who value both substance and functional design.

A Hub for Radical Thought and Great Literature

The publisher’s catalog is distinguished by its intellectual rigor. Its most notable association is with the world-renowned philosopher Giorgio Agamben, whose critical essays on biopolitics and sovereignty are central to Nottetempo’s identity. The house also focuses on:
Contemporary Fiction: Discovering new Italian voices and translating international gems that explore the complexities of modern identity.
Socio-Political Essays: Addressing urgent global issues such as environmental crises, digital ethics, and social justice.
Poetry and Memoirs: Maintaining a delicate balance between rational discourse and emotional resonance.

Independence in the 2025 Landscape

As of 2025, Nottetempo stands as a testament to the resilience of independent publishing in Italy. Now based in Milan, the house has successfully navigated the digital transition by integrating e-books and multimedia content into its ecosystem while doubling down on sustainable printing practices. It remains a “boutique” publisher that prioritizes the relationship between the author and the reader, ensuring that every book published is a deliberate contribution to the global cultural conversation.

Legacy and Future Vision

Nottetempo continues to be a lighthouse for “Slow Culture.” In an era of rapid-fire information, it advocates for the slow, careful reading of carefully curated texts. For the Italian reading public, a Nottetempo book is a guarantee of quality, a small object that opens up vast intellectual horizons.