Social Guest Registration Price: $350 USD
Registration Includes:
Evening Reception at Orleans Royal Gardens - Wednesday, May 21, 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Gala Dinner at Villa Malfitano-Whitaker - Thursday, May 22, 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM
As part of the SMS Special Conference in Palermo, we invite you to two unforgettable evening receptions at stunning historic venues. Network with fellow attendees, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and immerse yourself in the rich history of these iconic locations.
The Orleans Royal Gardens in Palermo trace their origins to the late 15th century when merchant Onorio Garofolo acquired fertile lands in the Kemonia Valley. The estate changed hands until 1801, when Prince Giuseppe Reggio transformed it into an agricultural experimentation station. Featuring Pietro Consagra’s bronze sculpture Controluceeuforico and a gardenesque area inspired by John Claudius Loudon’s style, the park now serves as an ornithological reserve hosting diverse exotic and native bird species.
Built between 1885 and 1889 by architect Ignazio Greco for Joseph Whitaker and his wife, Tina Scalia, Villa Malfitano-Whitaker is a fine example of neoclassical architecture in Palermo. Its elegant façade features harmonious proportions and refined decorative details, creating a monumental yet balanced appearance. Surrounding the villa is a magnificent botanical park, designed by Emilio Kunzmann, reflecting Whitaker’s passion for ornithology, botany, and archaeology.
Registration Policies:
This registration is intended travel companions of registered conference attendees who would like to attend evening events. Individuals that are already registered for the main conference do not need to purchase this registration for themselves as these events are included in the conference registration fee. Due to direct costs already incurred, no refunds are available for Social Guest Registration. Substitutions are permitted.