Founded in 2013 by British art historian Lucy Abel Smith as the Transylvanian Book Festival, the festival was created to celebrate the cultural richness of Transylvania — its history, literature, architecture and ethnic diversity. Today, under its current name, the event remains unique in its non-profit nature, its location in the villages and foothills of Transylvania, and its full English-language program, aimed at a cultured international audience interested in the heritage of Central and Eastern Europe. The festival will bring together internationally renowned historians, writers, researchers and artists, including: Nick Thorpe, Richard Bassett, Martyn Rady, Dr. Shona Kallestrup, Dr. John Ackeroyd. The program includes, but is not limited to, conferences and debates dedicated to the history and identity of Transylvania; lectures on Maria Theresa, Queen Maria of Romania and King Michael; a special concert at the Fortified Church of Richiș, exhibitions of contemporary art and photography.