Social event

The social event will take place on the afternoon of Monday 13 March. It is is free for all invited delegates and is also included in the ‘Accompanying persons’ fee.

There are two alternative activities to choose from in the afternoon

Option 1 – Guided tour of the town of Massa Marittima (2-4 pm)

The picturesque town of Massa Marittima can be seen from the conference venue, perched on top of the surrounding tree-clad hills. Considered to be one of the ‘medieval jewels’ of Tuscany, it was founded by the Etruscans, and its history is closely linked to the copper and silver mines nearby. With the help of a local guide, we will learn about the three distinct areas of the town: la Città Vecchia (old city), la Città Nuova (new city) and the Borgo. Each area is architecturally distinct and among the sights to be seen are the central square (Piazza Garibaldi), the 13th century Romanesque-Gothic style cathedral (Il Duomo), the church of Saint Augustine, with its Renaissance cloisters, the Palazzo Pretorio, the city walls and the clock tower and Sienese Fortress.

Option 2 – Guided walking tour/hike around the Tenuta il Cicalino Estate and local countryside (2-4 pm)
For those who are feeling a little more energetic and wish to experience some of the local countryside, we have arranged a walk/hike around the Tenuta il Cicalino Estate and beyond with professional trekking instructor, Olaf Peruzzi. The hike will last approximately 2 hours and is for all levels of fitness. No specialist equipment is required although it is advised to wear sports clothing and gym/trekking shoes.

4.45 – 6.00 pm Olive oil tasting
At 4.45 pm, we will be hosting an olive oil tasting event in the Conference room with Dr Alissa Mattei from the Tenuta il Cicalino Estate. Learn how the Tenuta makes its own oil from the surrounding olive groves and experience the subtle differences in taste between their oil varieties, which result in different food pairings.