Dialogues & Lectures

Saturday, July 12th 2025, 7.45 pm

"Astronomic pursuits under the shadow of Olympus: from ancient myth to modern astrophysics."
 

Invited speakers: 

• Thomas Bisbas, Astrophysicist & Research Professor at the Zhejiang Lab in Hangzhou, China
   
• Dimitra Mitta, Philologist & Author, specializing in the Philosophy of Myth

Why do the Gods transform and place people, animals, and objects in the sky? To punish, protect, or honor? This evening will take us on a journey from the ancient myths that gave rise to the constellations to the fascinating discoveries of modern astrophysics. We will explore the summer night sky and its most iconic constellations, discovering nebulae, galaxies and the stellar life cycle, from the birth of stars to their death. Through observational data from space telescopes and advanced computational simulations, we will witness Artemis’ companion Callisto transformed into a bear and then a constellation; the beautiful yet vain Cassiopeia placed among the stars; Orpheus’ lyre rising into the sky, with him beside it; Zeus’s eagle, Berenice’s hair and even the milk from Hera’s breast - all ascended to the heavens. In her left hand, Urania, the Muse of Astronomy, holds the celestial sphere.
 

Saturday, June 29th 2024 (completed event)

"Olympus & Pierian mountains: how Mythology illuminates our present and future. A conversation in the Myths' natural setting."

Invited speakers:

"Weaving Greek Myths"

• Charlotte Higgins, Author of the "Greek Myths: a New Retelling" and Chief Culture Writer in London's Guardian,
• Matthew Fox, Professor of Classics at the University of Glasgow.

"Muses: ideal chorus, well-being and inspiration."

• Andromache Karanika, Professor of Classics at the University of California, Irvine.