Award ceremony for the enhancement of a UNESCO site

On Tuesday 19 May 2026 at 10:30 AM, the Conference Hall of I.I.S.S. “Antonello Gagini” in Syracuse will host the closing event of the project “Siracusa and Pantalica – Le Linee del Cuore between Land and Sea”. The initiative is part of actions to promote and protect the UNESCO serial site “Siracusa and the Rock-Cut Necropolis of Pantalica” and engages young people in interpreting and enhancing local heritage.

Students from the Art High School created artworks and two installations intended to beautify the entrances of the UNESCO sites. During the morning the works will be displayed and the most notable pieces will be awarded.

Event details

• Date: 19 May 2026
• Time: 10:30 AM
• Venue: Conference Hall, I.I.S.S. “Antonello Gagini”, via Piazza Armerina 1, Syracuse

Program and awards

The ceremony includes presentations of the students’ projects and the award ceremony. Each participating student will receive a €100 contribution, and special prizes will be awarded to selected works.

Speakers and participants

The event will feature civil and educational authorities and the project curator. Confirmed speakers include:

• Giovanna Strano, Headteacher of I.I.S. “Antonello Gagini”
• Francesco Italia, Mayor of Syracuse
• Vincenzo Parlato, Mayor of Sortino
• Giada Cantamessa, art historian and project curator
• Mayors Mirella Garro (Cassaro) and Michelangelo Giansiracusa (Ferla) are also expected to attend

Students were guided by teachers Giovanna Galizia, Daniela Nieli, Nino Sicari, Giuseppe Greco, Emanuele Scapellato, Sara De Grandi, Giacomo Lo Verso and Felice Formisano.

Objectives

The project provided students with a practical opportunity to study and creatively reinterpret the UNESCO heritage of the area, fostering cultural awareness, a sense of belonging and artistic expression. The initiative supports the broader strategy to enhance the “Siracusa and Pantalica” site and to strengthen ties between young generations, the territory and its identity.

When: 19 May 2026, 10:30 AM — Where: Conference Hall, I.I.S.S. “Antonello Gagini”, via Piazza Armerina 1, Syracuse.