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Social Programme
Wednesday 16 September 2026
19.00 - 22.00
Welcome Cocktail & Dinner at the pool area at Hotel Cardo Roma
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Thursday 17 September 2026
09.00 - 16.30
PARTNER TOUR: ROME WALKING TOUR INCLUDING ENTRANCE TO THE PANTHEON
Embark on an enchanting journey through Rome’s magnificent history, art, and timeless culture with this unforgettable walking tour! Your experience begins in the breathtaking Piazza Navona, an elegant square that still echoes with the cheers of ancient crowds from its days as the Stadium of Domitian. Marvel at the theatrical grandeur of Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers, a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture, before we make our way to the highlight of our tour: the majestic Pantheon. We will step inside this ancient Roman temple, now a Basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary, to stand beneath its legendary dome. Gazing up at the oculus, you will feel the immense power of Roman engineering in the best-preserved monument of the ancient world.
As we continue our stroll through the city’s vibrant heart, we will visit the center of Italian political life at Piazza Montecitorio, home to the grand palace of the Chamber of Deputies, and the historic Piazza Colonna, dominated by the stately Palazzo Chigi. Next, prepare to be dazzled by the world-renowned Trevi Fountain. Admire the breathtaking work of Nicola Salvi and witness the cascading waters that have captured the imagination of travelers for centuries—don’t forget to toss a coin to ensure your return to Rome!
Our journey concludes in the iconic Piazza di Spagna, where the monumental Spanish Steps sweep upwards toward the Trinità dei Monti church. At the foot of the stairs, you will discover the charming Barcaccia Fountain, a unique collaboration by Pietro Bernini and his legendary son, Gian Lorenzo. With beautiful memories of Rome’s stunning piazze, grand architecture, and rich heritage, you will leave this tour feeling like you have experienced the very essence of the Eternal City.
Lunch at "Baccano" Restaurant
After lunch you can unleash your inner chef and dive into the sweet heart of Italian tradition with this exclusive Gelato Making Experience!
Step into an authentic Roman laboratory where the air is filled with the aroma of fresh cream and seasonal fruits. Guided by a master gelataio, you will discover the secrets behind Italy’s most beloved frozen treat. From selecting the finest natural ingredients to mastering the perfect churning technique, you will learn the step-by-step process of creating silky, flavorful gelato from scratch. This isn’t just a lesson; it is a sensory journey where you will get to taste your own delicious creations, freshly made and bursting with authentic flavor.
After indulging in your handmade masterpieces and learning the tips to recreate them at home, you can relax as we arrange your comfortable return to your hotel.
19.00
Departure by coach from the lobby of Hotel Cardo Roma for the European Carton Excellence Award Dinner. In the gardens of Villa Miani you will enjoy cocktails including an incredible panoramic view of the city of Rome followed by dinner on the terrace of the villa.
During dinner the winners of the European Carton Excellence Award, the Pro Carton Young Designers Award and the Student Video Award will be announced.
Dress Code: Smart Business (Suit and Tie)
Friday 18 September 2026
09.00 - 14.30
PARTNER TOUR: VATICAN MASTERPIECES & THE SISTINE CHAPEL TOUR
Prepare to be captivated by a journey through the world’s most renowned museums, where centuries of history, faith, and artistic genius converge in an unforgettable experience.
Your adventure begins as we delve into the vast corridors of the Vatican Museums, home to an unparalleled collection of ancient art. Marvel at the dramatic power of the Laocoön, the classical perfection of the Apollo Belvedere, and the muscular intensity of the Belvedere Torso - masterpieces that have inspired artists for generations. As we walk through these hallowed halls, you’ll witness the grandeur of the papacy and the evolution of Western art in a setting that is as lavish as it is historic.
Next, we will step into the private world of Pope Julius II as we visit the Raphael Rooms. Adorned with frescoes by Raphael and his school, these apartments are a testament to the High Renaissance. Stand in awe before the famous School of Athens, where you can spot the "portraits" of Raphael’s contemporaries—including Leonardo da Vinci, Bramante, and Michelangelo himself. Explore the vivid narratives of the Disputation of the Most Holy Sacrament, the poetic beauty of The Parnassus, and the dramatic intensity of the Room of Heliodorus.
The climax of our journey leads us to the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s ultimate masterpiece. Quiet your soul as you gaze up at the legendary ceiling and the monumental Last Judgment. Every brushstroke tells a story of creation and humanity, offering a moment of pure wonder that remains etched in your memory forever.
With your heart full of beauty and the echoes of the Renaissance still fresh in your mind, we will conclude our journey. You will leave this tour feeling like you have touched the very pinnacle of human creativity and experienced the timeless essence of the Eternal City.
Lunch and free time
19.30
Departure by bus from the lobby of Hotel Cardo Roma for an Italian evening underneath the olive trees at the terrace of Restaurant l'Antico Casale La Carovana. After dinner you can show your best moves on the dance floor.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Saturday 19 September 2026
09.00 - 16.30
OPTIONAL TOUR: “TOPOLINO DOLCEVITA” TOUR (not included in congress fee)
Experience the charm of Rome like never before behind the wheel of the brand-new Fiat Topolino! This tour invites you to embrace the "Dolce Vita" lifestyle, combining the timeless beauty of the Eternal City with the playful, chic design of Italy’s latest electric icon.
Your journey starts as you settle into this stylish and compact gem, perfectly designed to navigate Rome’s narrowest, most enchanting cobblestone streets. Feel the gentle Roman breeze as you glide silently past ancient ruins and sun-drenched piazze, turning heads at every corner. We will drive through the heart of the city, stopping at panoramic viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas of the skyline - moments perfectly framed by the unique, retro-inspired aesthetic of your Topolino.
As we cruise through iconic neighborhoods and hidden alleys, you will witness the seamless blend of Rome’s historic grandeur and modern, eco-friendly elegance. Whether we are pausing for a quick espresso in a bustling square or capturing the perfect photo against a backdrop of marble monuments, every moment is infused with Italian flair.
Lunch at Restaurant "Il Vero Alfredo"
After lunch, prepare to step back in time and walk in the footsteps of emperors as you explore the monumental heart of the Roman Empire. Our journey begins at the world’s largest amphitheater, the legendary Colosseum. Commissioned by Emperor Vespasiano and inaugurated by his son Titus in 80 AD, this architectural marvel was the stage for epic gladiator battles and grand hunts. As you explore its towering arches, you’ll feel the echoes of the crowds that filled this arena for five centuries, until the era of Christian emperors brought an end to these legendary games.
The adventure continues as we enter the Roman Forum, the true political, civil, and religious center of Rome. Walking along the Via Sacra - the sacred road redesigned under Emperor Augustus in 14 BC - you will find yourself surrounded by the ruins of a once-mighty civilization. We will discover the Curia, where the Senate met to decide the fate of nations, the Rostra where orators spoke to the people, and the majestic Triumphal Arches that celebrated Rome’s greatest victories.
From the grand Basilicas to the ancient Comitium, every stone tells a story of power, glory, and daily life in the ancient capital. You will leave this tour with a deep connection to the past, having experienced the very foundations upon which the modern world was built.
Please note that all details mentioned on this page may be subject to change.
Many thanks to our sponsors for helping to make the ECMA Congress happen:
ECMA Phone Number
+32 28 943 910
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