We are honoured to invite you to the 20th International Symposium on Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Associated Diseases to be held in Siena, Italy, on July 3rd-6th, 2022.
The International Symposium on Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Associated Diseases has been held biennally since 1984. The location of the symposium has alternated among Europe, Asia/Oceania, and the Americas. The symposium has kept attracting both researchers and clinicians worldwide whose interests are EBV virology, EBV immunology, and EBV-associated diseases/malignancies. The symposium is designed to provide updates on information concerning these areas. New topics along with new research developments will be addressed in this symposium.
During the past 36 years since the symposium was initially held in 1984, this is the first time it will be held in Siena, Tuscany, Italy.
The University of Siena is one of the oldest universities in Italy, founded on December 26 1240. The University is composed of fifteen departments, grouped in four areas: Biomedical and Medical Sciences; Economics, Law and Political Sciences; Experimental Sciences; Literature, History, Philosophy and the Arts. The University of Siena has approximately 20,000 students from all parts of Italy and from foreign countries. With its many international exchange programs, it is one of the most forward thinking in Italy. Every year over 700 European students attend the courses in Siena.
Siena is a one of the most popular tourist areas to visit in Italyand it is a charming Tuscan City. It has a rich history and culture, mediaeval walls and streets. The City boasts one of Italy’s must-visit Cathedrals, the Duomo di Siena.This stunning 13th century black and white gothic church is decorated with intricate statues and carvings. Inside the Cathedral you can find magnificent mosaics and frescos by Michelangelo and Donatello. However, the most spectacular piece of art is the 14th century marble floor mosaic.
Towering over the Piazza del Campo is the Torre del Mangia which was built in 1348. Standing 102 metres, it is exactly the same height as Duomo di Siena Cathedral, which was to show that the church and state had equal amounts of power. It’s a fantastic place to sit, relax, drink and watching people passing by, the best way to soak up the wonderful Italian culture in this famous square.
Speaking of the Piazza del Campo, twice a year this beautiful square is transformed into a sand track for one of the world’s most important historical horse races – the Palio di Siena.It is held every 2 July and 16 August in one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares, which is world renowned for its unique shell-shape and beauty. Thousands flock from all over the world to watch one of the most exhilarating events of the year just before the Conference time.
Siena is also known for its traditional cuisine and the best red wines in Italy. The City is located between two important wine producing regions, Montalcino and Chianti. This paradise for wine enthusiasts offers an array of diverse wine estates from which you can enjoy a wine tasting, and a delicious meal.
The conference provides an important opportunity to promote and stimulate the exchange of ideas, encourages co-operation between institutions and stimulates the transfer of knowledge and research materials among researchers throughout the world who study EBV and its related diseases. We also hope that this conference will provide an opportunity for junior fellows and post-graduate students to learn more about EBV.
We hope you have a wonderful time in Siena and find the 20th International Symposium on Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Associated Diseases in Siena to be an enriching experience. Thank you for your science and support to make this a successful meeting!
President
Lorenzo Leoncini
on behalf of the Organizing Committee