We are delighted to announce that the 91st Annual Meeting of the Meteoritical Society will be held in Firenze (Italy) in 2029! The tentative dates for the meeting are 23–27 July 2029.
Firenze, the capital of the Tuscany region, is internationally recognized as both a cultural and scientific landmark. Located in the heart of Central Italy along the Arno River, it has a population of approximately 362,000 and is globally renowned as the cradle of the Renaissance. While Firenze’s artistic and architectural treasures—such as the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Vecchio—are celebrated worldwide, its scientific legacy is equally profound. The city that was once home to Galileo Galilei—now honored through the presence of the Galileo Museum—continues to uphold its legacy of scientific inquiry, housing significant geo-mineralogical and meteorite collections at the Natural History Museum “La Specola” and thus reflecting a centuries-old tradition of exploration, observation, and discovery.
Firenze also hosts prestigious academic and scientific institutions. The University of Firenze, one of Italy’s largest universities, hosts prominent departments in Earth Sciences, Physics, and Astronomy, which are actively engaged in worldwide recognized, cutting-edge research in meteoritics and planetary science. The city also houses key national research institutes, including branches of the National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF) and the National Research Council (CNR), fostering a dynamic environment for international scientific dialogue.
The area surrounding Firenze contributes significantly to Earth and planetary sciences through its varied geological landscapes, rich mineralogical deposits—including several now-exhausted historic mines—and a longstanding tradition of scientific inquiry. Nearby, visitors can find prominent astronomical observatories as well as a museum entirely devoted to meteorites and planetary science, underscoring Tuscany’s pivotal role in advancing both research and public engagement in these disciplines.
Firenze’s central location provides excellent connectivity, making it easily accessible from major European and international destinations. The city is served by the Firenze “Amerigo Vespucci” Airport, with additional international access through the nearby airports of Pisa and Bologna. High-speed rail links the city less than two hours from both Roma and Milano, while an extensive road network further enhances regional and national accessibility.
We look forward to welcoming you to Firenze in 2029 for a memorable week of scientific exchange, discovery, and cultural enrichment in one of the most iconic cities in the world!
Submitted by Giovanni Pratesi (Firenze)