Welcome Reception (Monday, June 15, 2026)
The Welcome Reception will take place at the Le Ciminiere Congress and Exhibition Center on Monday evening, June 15, 2026.
Conference Dinner (Thursday, June 18, 2026)
The Conference Dinner will be held at MA Catania, an exclusive venue located in the historic heart of the city, just beside the imposing Castello Ursino, one of Catania’s most emblematic medieval landmarks.
Set within a carefully reimagined architectural space, MA Catania combines traces of industrial archaeology with contemporary design, creating a refined and elegant environment where historical memory and modern aesthetics coexist harmoniously. Its distinctive character makes it an ideal setting for a convivial evening dedicated to scientific exchange, networking, and international collaboration.
Guests will enjoy a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, enriched by the evocative surroundings of Castello Ursino and the historic urban fabric of Catania. The evening will offer the opportunity to experience traditional Sicilian cuisine and regional wines in a setting that reflects the cultural identity, architectural heritage, and vibrant spirit of the city.
How to Reach the Dinner Venue
MA Catania
Via Vela, 6
Catania
- On foot: The venue is within walking distance of Piazza Duomo (the main square of the city located in the historic center).
- By taxi/car: The recommended drop-off is Federico di Svevia Square, near Castello Ursino.
Excursion Options (Wednesday, June 17, 2026)
Excursion 1 – Taormina
Duration: approximately 4 hours
Known as the Pearl of the Ionian Sea, Taormina enchants visitors with its timeless charm and breathtaking views over the coast and Mount Etna. The tour begins at the ancient gates of the town, before entering the charming streets of the historic centre. Walking through the picturesque alleys, participants will reach the Cathedral, the artistic and spiritual heart of the old town.
The itinerary continues toward the Naumachia, an impressive archaeological structure that reveals an important trace of Taormina’s Roman heritage. From there, the visit proceeds to the Public Gardens, a splendid landscaped oasis offering peaceful views and a distinctive atmosphere.
The highlight of the tour will be the magnificent Greco-Roman Theatre, one of the most iconic monuments in Sicily. Set in a spectacular panoramic position, the theatre combines archaeological importance with breathtaking views over the coastline and Mount Etna.
At the end of the guided visit, free time will be available to explore the town independently, enjoy its elegant atmosphere, stroll along the main streets, or visit local shops before returning to Catania.
Excursion 2 – Mount Etna
Duration: approximately 6 hours
Embark on a fascinating nature walk along the Monti Sartorius trail, one of the most evocative routes on the northeastern slope of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located at an altitude of approximately 1,660 meters above sea level, near the historic Rifugio Citelli, this easy loop trail extends for about 4 km and can be completed in roughly two hours, with a moderate elevation gain of around 100 meters.
The route offers an ideal introduction to Etna’s extraordinary volcanic landscape, combining natural beauty, geological interest, and botanical richness. Along the trail, participants will encounter six observation points of remarkable naturalistic value, crossing open clearings, lava fields, and woodland areas dominated by the endemic Etna birch (Betula aetnensis), one of the most distinctive species of the volcano’s vegetation.
The itinerary also provides striking views of massive volcanic bombs, ancient lava formations, and the majestic cone of Monte Frumento delle Cocazze. A major highlight of the walk is the 1865 eruptive system, which gave rise to the Monti Sartorius: a spectacular alignment of eruptive cones arranged in the characteristic “buttonhole” pattern, locally known as bottoniera.
The experience combines accessible hiking, scientific interest, and the quiet beauty of Etna’s high-altitude environment. Participants are advised to wear suitable footwear and to walk with care, as some sections of the lava terrain may be uneven.
Excursion 3 – Catania
Duration: approximately 4 hours
Nestled between the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna, Catania captivates visitors with its millennia-old history, vibrant urban life, and striking Baroque architecture shaped by the dark lava stone of Etna.
The guided tour begins in Piazza Duomo, the historic and symbolic heart of the city, home to Palazzo degli Elefanti, Catania’s Town Hall, the majestic Cathedral of Saint Agatha, and the iconic Elephant Fountain, the emblem of the city. The visit continues to the Church of Badia di Sant’Agata, one of the most elegant examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture.
Participants will then proceed toward the Ostello, where they will discover the fascinating lava-flow cave preserved within the premises, a striking reminder of the deep connection between Catania and its volcanic landscape.
From there, the itinerary follows Via Crociferi, one of the most evocative Baroque streets in the city. Passing beneath the Arch of San Benedetto, visitors will admire the Church of San Benedetto, followed by the Church of San Giuliano and the Church of San Francesco Borgia with its former Jesuit College.
Ascending the hill, the route reaches the monumental Church of San Nicola and its imposing monastery complex. The tour then descends toward the Roman Amphitheatre, a remarkable testimony to the ancient past of the city.
The visit concludes with a pleasant walk along the central Via Etnea, ending in Piazza Università, where participants can enjoy the lively atmosphere of Catania’s historic centre before returning.
