To enrich the scientific program of the conference, a series of cultural and scientific social events will take place at historically significant locations connected with astronomy, science, and the arts in and around Rome. These activities are designed to offer participants an opportunity to experience the historical context of astronomical research while exploring remarkable heritage sites.
Participants will have the chance to visit historic observatories, Renaissance academies, and villas decorated with cosmological and astronomical themes, as well as attend evening events combining music, literature, and sky observation in unique historical settings. These initiatives aim to foster informal exchange among participants while highlighting the deep connections between astronomy, culture, and history in Italy.
Program of Social Events
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5 October – Baroque Music, Readings and Astronomical Observations
Giardino Segreto and Teatro d’Acque, 20:00–22:00
An evening event featuring baroque music, literary readings, and guided astronomical observations in the atmospheric setting of the Giardino Segreto and the historic water theatre. -
6 October – Visit the Noble rooms in Villa Mondragone
From 18:30 onward
Evening visit to Villa Mondragone, one of the largest Renaissance villas in the Roman countryside, historically connected with scientific and cultural activities and renowned for its architectural grandeur. -
7 October – Visit to the Vatican Observatory (Specola Vaticana), Castel Gandolfo
14:30–18:30
Guided visit to one of the oldest astronomical research institutions in the world, located in the Papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. -
8 October – Keynote Speaker Lecture at the Botanical Garden of Rome
From 19:00 onward
Special evening keynote lecture held in the historic setting of the Orto Botanico di Roma, offering participants an opportunity to attend a distinguished talk in a unique cultural and scientific environment. -
9 October – Visit to Villa Farnesina
09:00–12:00
Morning visit to Villa Farnesina, renowned for its Renaissance art and intellectual history. -
10 October – Visit to the Copernican Museum and Solar Tower, INAF Headquarters (Monte Mario)
09:30–12:30
Visit to the historical Copernican Museum and the Solar Tower at the INAF Headquarters on Monte Mario, offering insight into the history of Italian astronomy and solar observations. -
11 October – Excursion to Renaissance Villas in Northern Lazio
Full-day excursion
Visit to Villa Giustiniani in Bassano Romano and Palazzo Farnese in Caprarola, two outstanding Renaissance villas notable for their remarkable fresco cycles, including celestial and astronomical decorations.