From January 20 to February 23, 2026, INGV organized a rich program of activities for the 7th edition of "Words for the Earth," a special event involving various branches of the Institute and beyond, as part of STEM Week.
Volcanologists, seismologists, and environmental experts accompanied the public and participating schools on a journey of discovery of our planet, with interactive activities, innovative technologies, and the latest scientific discoveries. The initiative aims to raise awareness among visitors about the phenomena studied by geosciences, encouraging them to understand how the Earth "speaks," from its core to the surface of the oceans, through the physical signals it produces every day.
Scientific speed dates have been organized in some locations. The speed date format allows visitors to sit down at a table for a short, face-to-face meeting with a researcher, who can ask any questions they may have on specific topics. This informal, inclusive, and dialogue-oriented experience fosters understanding and stimulates interest in the geosciences.
A diverse and educational experience for everyone, celebrating the beauty of geology and the INGV's commitment to the study and understanding of our planet.
Tuesday 20 January | 15:30-18:30 | Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 6-6/2
Educational Laboratory >> Earthquakes
We know less about what happens a few kilometers beneath Earth's surface or in the depths of the oceans than we do about stars thousands of light-years away. Yet Earth has left us unmistakable signs of how it became the only planet on which we can survive. These same signs explain why Earth destroyed 99% of the living species it had spawned. Today, thanks to technological developments, we are able to record physical signals in real time: to try to predict when the next destructive event will occur, we need to be able to interpret them.
In the lab, physics will become the tool for understanding the forces that shape the Earth System. We will begin with the history of how the Earth formed, modeling its behavior four billion years ago, then explore its development to the present day and predict how the planet will evolve over time. Using the signals that the Earth produces and presents on its surface, we will understand how oceans, mountains, and volcanoes function through hands-on and computer-assisted experiments.
More info
Tuesday 27 January | 15:30 – 18:30 | Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 6-6/2
Educational Workshop >> “Measurements from Space”
We know less about what happens a few kilometers beneath Earth's surface or in the depths of the oceans than we do about stars thousands of light-years away. Yet Earth has left us unmistakable signs of how it became the only planet on which we can survive. These same signs explain why Earth destroyed 99% of the living species it had spawned. Today, thanks to technological developments, we are able to record physical signals in real time: to try to predict when the next destructive event will occur, we need to be able to interpret them.
In the lab, physics will become the tool for understanding the forces that shape the Earth System. We will begin with the history of how the Earth formed, modeling its behavior four billion years ago, then explore its development to the present day and predict how the planet will evolve over time. Using the signals that the Earth produces and presents on its surface, we will understand how oceans, mountains, and volcanoes function through hands-on and computer-assisted experiments.
More info
Monday February 2 | 14:30-16:30 Middle School - Piana Battolla Branch of the "Salvo D'Acquisto" Comprehensive Institute of Follo-Calice (SP), Via De Gasperi, 8, Piana Battolla (SP)
Educational Workshop - Science Journalism >> “C for Climate, F for Fake News”
“C for Climate, F for Fake News” is a science journalism workshop for middle school students, designed to foster critical thinking and reflection on the topic of climate change and the actions we can take to protect ourselves and our planet.
The activity is in collaboration with the AMA (ArtisticaMente Attiva) week of the "Salvo D'Acquisto" comprehensive institute of Follo - Calice (SP)
More info:
Tuesday February 3 | 15:30 - 18:30 | Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 6-6/2
Educational Workshop >> “Oceans and Tsunamis”
We know less about what happens a few kilometers beneath Earth's surface or in the depths of the oceans than we do about stars thousands of light-years away. Yet Earth has left us unmistakable signs of how it became the only planet on which we can survive. These same signs explain why Earth destroyed 99% of the living species it had spawned. Today, thanks to technological developments, we are able to record physical signals in real time: to try to predict when the next destructive event will occur, we need to be able to interpret them.
In the lab, physics will become the tool for understanding the forces that shape the Earth System. We will begin with the history of how the Earth formed, modeling its behavior four billion years ago, then explore its development to the present day and predict how the planet will evolve over time. Using the signals that the Earth produces and presents on its surface, we will understand how oceans, mountains, and volcanoes function through hands-on and computer-assisted experiments.
More info
Thursday February 5 | 9:00 - 13:00 | CA De Gasperi - A. Pecoraro Comprehensive Institute, Via Papa Giovanni Paolo II, Palermo (PA)
Meeting for middle and high schools >> “Pwords for the Earth”
Want to learn how Earth's dynamics work and how scientists monitor volcanic and seismic activity in real time?
We speak for the Earth with researchers from the Palermo Section of the INGV in popular seminars for middle and high schools, dedicated to the main processes that govern our planet and the observation techniques used in scientific research.
The meeting will be enriched by a visit to the geochemical laboratories, where it will be possible to see firsthand the instruments and analyses used to study volcanoes and earthquakes.
An experience designed to bring the public closer to science, promoting understanding of natural phenomena and the fundamental role of monitoring in preventing and mitigating natural risks.
More info:
Friday February 6 | 9:00-11:00 | Salvo D'Acquisto Comprehensive Institute Secondary School, Follo-Calice (SP), Via De Gasperi, 8, Piana Battolla (SP)
Educational Workshop - Science Journalism >> “C for Climate, F for Fake News”
“C for Climate, F for Fake News” is a science journalism workshop for middle school students, designed to foster critical thinking and reflection on the topic of climate change and the actions we can take to protect ourselves and our planet.
The activity is in collaboration with the AMA (ArtisticaMente Attiva) week of the “Salvo D'Acquisto” comprehensive institute in Follo - Calice (SP).
More info:
Friday February 6 | 11:00-13:00 | Preschool - Piana Battolla Branch of the "Salvo D'Acquisto" Comprehensive Institute of Follo-Calice (SP), Via Roma 7, Piana Battolla (SP)
Educational Workshop >> "T for Earthquake"
"T for Earthquake" is a workshop featuring fairy tales and hands-on activities for preschoolers designed to disseminate good practices for seismic risk mitigation to younger children.
The activities are in collaboration with the AMA (ArtisticaMente Attiva) week of the “Salvo D'Acquisto” comprehensive institute in Follo - Calice (SP).
Useful links
National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV)
https://www.icfollo.edu.it/la-settimana-a-m-a/
Sunday February 8 | 19:00-22:00 | ORZO BRUNO Brewery, Via della Case Dipinte, Pisa (PI)
Meeting with the researchers >> "Words for the Earth - Earth in Ferment"
Science meets the public… over a glass!
We talk about the Earth with researchers from the Pisa Section of the INGV in a series of scientific speed dates: short, informal, one-on-one meetings to talk freely about the topics we study every day.
Volcanoes, earthquakes, the environment, but also the relationship between science and society: choose the topic that most intrigues you, sit down with a researcher, and ask all the questions you want.
All in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere, in front of an excellent beer (or a soft drink), to discover how alive, complex and fascinating the Earth is… and let yourself be conquered by science.
More info:
Monday, February 9 | 9:00 AM - 13:00 PM | INGV Headquarters, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo (PA)
Meeting for middle and high schools >> “Pwords for the Earth”
Want to learn how Earth's dynamics work and how scientists monitor volcanic and seismic activity in real time?
We speak for the Earth with researchers from the Palermo Section of the INGV in popular seminars for middle and high schools, dedicated to the main processes that govern our planet and the observation techniques used in scientific research.
The meeting will be enriched by a visit to the geochemical laboratories, where it will be possible to see firsthand the instruments and analyses used to study volcanoes and earthquakes.
An experience designed to bring the public closer to science, promoting understanding of natural phenomena and the fundamental role of monitoring in preventing and mitigating natural risks.
More info:
Tuesday February 10 | 11:00 - 14:00 | Gianni Rodari Comprehensive School, Via Maleubbia, SNC - Pianola (AQ)
Interactive lesson for middle schools >> “Words for the Earth”
How does the Sun affect the Earth and what can artificial intelligence do?
We speak for the Earth with the students of the third grade of middle school.
Researchers at the INGV – L'Aquila branch – offer participatory lessons to explore the connection between the Sun and the Earth and discover how artificial intelligence supports the study of natural phenomena.
More info:
Wednesday February 11 | 09:00 - 13:00 Bourbon Prison, Ciriaco De Mita Hall, Via Dalmazia 22, Avellino (AV)
Educational program for schools >> "Dialogue on Earth: The Science of Earthquakes Explained to Everyone"
Want to better understand how the natural phenomena that shape our planet work?
“Dialogue on Earth: The Science of Earthquakes Explained to Everyone” is an interactive, immersive, and educational experience designed for children, adults, and families. It explores the world of earthquakes, volcanoes, and major natural hazards, and helps us understand how to live with them more consciously.
You can "enter" the magma chamber of a volcano or experience an earthquake in a simulated home environment. Our researchers will be available to interact with the public, answer questions, and clarify doubts.
It will be a unique opportunity to learn while having fun, share ideas, ask questions, and discover how science can help us live more safely in our country.
More info:
Wednesday February 11 | 15:00 - 19:00 Bourbon Prison, Ciriaco De Mita Hall, Via Dalmazia 22, Avellino (AV)
Interactive course for citizens >> "Dialogue on Earth: The Science of Earthquakes Explained to Everyone"
Want to better understand how the natural phenomena that shape our planet work?
“Dialogue on Earth: The Science of Earthquakes Explained to Everyone” is an interactive, immersive, and educational experience designed for children, adults, and families. It explores the world of earthquakes, volcanoes, and major natural hazards, and helps us understand how to live with them more consciously.
You can "enter" the magma chamber of a volcano or experience an earthquake in a simulated home environment. Our researchers will be available to interact with the public, answer questions, and clarify doubts.
It will be a unique opportunity to learn while having fun, share ideas, ask questions, and discover how science can help us live more safely in our country.
More info:
Thursday February 12 | 9:00 - 11:00 | INGV Etna Observatory (INGV - OE), Piazza Roma, 2, Catania (CT)
Seminars, hands-on activities, and visits to the Etna Observatory's Operations Room and Library - for secondary schools >> "Words for the Earth"
Want to learn the tools of the volcanologist's trade? Are you familiar with the activities of the Etna Observatory?
Researchers from the INGV Etna Observatory will speak about the Earth with school students, demonstrating up close instruments such as drones, seismometers and thermal cameras used in the study of volcanoes.
Seminars, hands-on activities, and a visit to the Operations Room and Library of the Etna Observatory will offer a comprehensive experience, allowing participants to learn about the scientific, operational, and documentation activities that characterize the Section's work.
More info:
Thursday February 12 | 10:00 - 13:30 | Milan Research Area, Via Corti 12 (MI)
Interactive workshops and games - activities for secondary schools >> "Words for the Earth"
How does the Earth speak to us about earthquakes? And how does science listen, interpret, and convey these "words" to society?
Researchers from the INGV—Milan Section and the National Earthquake Observatory, Genoa office—will speak about the Earth with high school students, addressing lesser-known aspects of earthquakes.
It will be a challenge packed with workshops, educational games, and opportunities for discussion and exchange, exploring the impact of earthquakes on the local area and society.
A message of awareness, land conservation, and natural hazard mitigation will be the event's underlying theme: it's up to the boys and girls to discover it and... share it!
More info:
Friday February 13 | 9:00 - 12:00 | Navelli Comprehensive Institute, Piazza S. Pelino 1 (AQ)
Interactive lesson for middle schools >> “Words for the Earth”
How does the Sun affect the Earth and what can artificial intelligence do?
We speak for the Earth with the students of the third grade of middle school.
Researchers at the INGV in L'Aquila offer participatory lessons to explore the connection between the Sun and Earth and discover how artificial intelligence supports the study of natural phenomena.
More info:
Friday February 13 | 09:00 - 13:00 Bourbon Prison, Ciriaco De Mita Hall, Via Dalmazia 22, Avellino (AV)
Educational program for schools >> "Dialogue on Earth: The Science of Earthquakes Explained to Everyone"
Want to better understand how the natural phenomena that shape our planet work?
“Dialogue on Earth: The Science of Earthquakes Explained to Everyone” is an interactive, immersive, and educational experience designed for children, adults, and families. It explores the world of earthquakes, volcanoes, and major natural hazards, and helps us understand how to live with them more consciously.
You can "enter" the magma chamber of a volcano or experience an earthquake in a simulated home environment. Our researchers will be available to interact with the public, answer questions, and clarify doubts.
It will be a unique opportunity to learn while having fun, share ideas, ask questions, and discover how science can help us live more safely in our country.
More info:
Friday February 13 | 9:00 - 11:00 | INGV Etna Observatory (INGV - OE), Piazza Roma, 2, Catania (CT)
Seminars, hands-on activities, and visits to the Etna Observatory's Operations Room and Library - activities for secondary schools >> "The Profession of a Volcanologist"
Want to learn the tools of the volcanologist's trade? Are you familiar with the activities of the Etna Observatory?
Researchers from the INGV Etna Observatory will speak about the Earth with school students, demonstrating up close instruments such as drones, seismometers and thermal cameras used in the study of volcanoes.
Seminars, hands-on activities, and a visit to the Operations Room and Library of the Etna Observatory will offer a comprehensive experience, allowing participants to learn about the scientific, operational, and documentation activities that characterize the Section's work.
More info:
Friday February 13 | 10:00 - 13:30 | Milan Research Area, Via Corti 12 (MI)
Interactive workshops and games - activities for secondary schools >> "Words for the Earth"
How does the Earth speak to us about earthquakes? And how does science listen, interpret, and convey these "words" to society?
Researchers from the INGV—Milan Section and the National Earthquake Observatory, Genoa office—will speak about the Earth with high school students, addressing lesser-known aspects of earthquakes.
It will be a challenge packed with workshops, educational games, and opportunities for discussion and exchange, exploring the impact of earthquakes on the local area and society.
A message of awareness, land conservation, and natural hazard mitigation will be the event's underlying theme: it's up to the boys and girls to discover it and... share it!
More info:
Friday February 13 | 15:00 - 19:00 Bourbon Prison, Ciriaco De Mita Hall, Via Dalmazia 22, Avellino (AV)
Interactive course for citizens >> "Dialogue on Earth: The Science of Earthquakes Explained to Everyone"
Want to better understand how the natural phenomena that shape our planet work?
“Dialogue on Earth: The Science of Earthquakes Explained to Everyone” is an interactive, immersive, and educational experience designed for children, adults, and families. It explores the world of earthquakes, volcanoes, and major natural hazards, and helps us understand how to live with them more consciously.
You can "enter" the magma chamber of a volcano or experience an earthquake in a simulated home environment. Our researchers will be available to interact with the public, answer questions, and clarify doubts.
It will be a unique opportunity to learn while having fun, share ideas, ask questions, and discover how science can help us live more safely in our country.
More info:
Thursday February 19 | 9:00 - 13:00 | INGV Headquarters, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo (PA)
Meeting for middle and high schools >> “Words for the Earth"
Want to learn how Earth's dynamics work and how scientists monitor volcanic and seismic activity in real time?
We speak for the Earth with researchers from the Palermo Section of the INGV in popular seminars for middle and high schools, dedicated to the main processes that govern our planet and the observation techniques used in scientific research.
The meeting will be enriched by a visit to the geochemical laboratories, where it will be possible to see firsthand the instruments and analyses used to study volcanoes and earthquakes.
An experience designed to bring the public closer to science, promoting understanding of natural phenomena and the fundamental role of monitoring in preventing and mitigating natural risks.
More info:
Saturday February 21 | 10:00 - 17:00 | INGV Headquarters – Via di Vigna Murata 605, Rome (RM)
Open Day >> “Words for the Earth”
Do you have any questions, concerns, or simply curiosity about hot topics in Earth Sciences?
It's time to clear things up! Come over for a coffee and a pastry and we'll talk.
With the Speed Dating formula, you will have 15 minutes to choose one of the proposed topics on earthquakes, volcanoes, and environmental issues and ask all the questions you want to our researchers.
It will also be possible to visit the Seismic and Tsunami Surveillance Operations Room. There will also be virtual reality experiences, story maps, and games for children.
The event is open to all.
More info:
Monday February 23 | 9:00 - 13:00 | INGV Headquarters, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo (PA)
Meeting for middle and high schools >> "Words for the Earth"
Want to learn how Earth's dynamics work and how scientists monitor volcanic and seismic activity in real time?
We speak for the Earth with researchers from the Palermo Section of the INGV in popular seminars for middle and high schools, dedicated to the main processes that govern our planet and the observation techniques used in scientific research.
The meeting will be enriched by a visit to the geochemical laboratories, where it will be possible to see firsthand the instruments and analyses used to study volcanoes and earthquakes.
An experience designed to bring the public closer to science, promoting understanding of natural phenomena and the fundamental role of monitoring in preventing and mitigating natural risks.
More info:
