Dear friends and colleagues,

We are delighted to invite you to the 6th SIICA International Conference of Translational Immunology in Monopoli on May 22-25, 2024, under the patronage of the City of Monopoli and the University of Bari Aldo Moro.

Located on the Adriatic coast of Italy’s heal 45 km south bound of Bari, Monopoli is an ancient Messapian colony established about 2500 years ago. It then became an important settlement of the Roman Empire thanks to the construction of the Via Traiana, one of the longest and busiest Roman roads connecting the Empire from East to West. The continuous threats and the different dominations over the centuries explain the presence of massive fortifications, churches and historical buildings surrounded by the sea. These monuments are well conserved in the historical centre of Monopoli, attracting thousands of tourists every summer. Attractions nearby are the unique sea cost with natural rock harbors, the Apulian countryside with typical fortified masserie and centuries-old olive groves, Alberobello and the Valle d’Itria with their unique Trulli buildings, the Castellana Caves, Lecce, Matera and others. Monopoli can be reached by train directly from the Bari international airport in about an hour. Taxi and private transfers, which take about 40 minutes, are also available at the airport.

The Auditorium Radar, built in 1939 and located a few steps away from the railway station will be the venue for plenary sessions. It has 450 seats and is equipped with a panoramic terrace available for social happenings. The municipality of Monopoli also granted the use of the majestic Palazzo Palmieri with its large Piazza Palmieri Square, the Carlo V D’Aragona Castle and the Prospero Rendella public library, all placed in the heart of the historic center. These venues will host both scientific and social activities that include poster exhibitions, interactions with companies, small meetings requested by delegates, welcome reception, social dinner, etc. Delegates will find plenty of accommodation options in hotels, B&B or self-catering, all placed at brief walking distances from meeting venues. We think this logistic set up will create a pleasant and unique working environment where speakers and delegates can discuss science after the plenary sessions.

The Scientific Committee is finalizing the program, which includes Keynote Lectures, Topic and Sponsored Scientific Symposia, Company Roundtable Symposia and Workshops. Among the invited speakers, we can confirm participation of top national and international immunologists. The SIICA Board and the Junior Faculty will present their initiatives aiming to attract the interest of all willing to get involved. We have scheduled oral presentations by young scientists and a primetime Poster session, with plenty of discussion time. Travel grants and our traditional prizes will be awarded to young SIICA members.

We very much look forward to welcoming you in our charming Monopoli.

Sincerely,

Domenico Mavilio                              Francesco Colucci