“Enclose in your soul Greece
and you shall feel every kind of grandeur.”
Dionysios Solomos (Greece's national poet, 1798 – 1857)
We are excited to announce that prior to the main conference program, we are organizing an immersive pre-conference cultural experience that will transport participants back to the golden age of ancient Athens. This carefully curated program will include guided visits to iconic sites such as the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora - where Socrates once walked and taught - and the Pnyx, the hill where the ancient Athenian democratic assembly gathered to debate and vote on the affairs of the city-state. You'll walk the very steps where citizens exercised their democratic rights and witness firsthand the architectural magnificence that has influenced civilizations for millennia.

Participants will have the unique opportunity to deeply engage with the birthplace of democracy and experience how ancient Athenians lived, governed, and shaped the foundations of Western civilization. The program will feature expert-led tours exploring the Theatre of Dionysus, where the works of Sophocles and Euripides first came to life, and the Kerameikos, the ancient cemetery that offers fascinating insights into daily life and ritual practices. Through interactive sessions and specialized guides, you'll discover how the ecclesia (assembly) functioned, how citizens participated in governance through the βουλή (council-parliament), and how the sophisticated jury system of the ηλιαία (supreme copurt) helped maintain justice in the ancient polis. This cultural prelude will provide valuable historical context that bridges the ancient world with our modern scientific discourse.
Beyond the ancient wonders, participants will experience the vibrant pulse of modern Athens through evening walks in the charming Plaka neighborhood, where traditional tavernas serve authentic Greek cuisine amid a maze of picturesque streets. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy the contemporary Athenian way of life, from sipping coffee at bustling cafes in Kolonaki to exploring the artistic hub of Psyrri, where street art meets traditional craftsmanship. As the sun sets, join fellow conference attendees at a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of the illuminated Acropolis, while savoring modern interpretations of traditional Greek dishes and engaging in stimulating discussions that bridge past and present.
The detailed program of pre-conference activities will be announced at the end of April.

