“Vincenzo Cotecchia” Award. In Catania during the national conference AIGAA 

The Italian Association of Applied and Environmental Geology awards Prof. Vincenzo Simeone for the best professional contribution in Applied Geology 

“Geological knowledge must play a central role in decision-making phases, actively guiding design choices,” states the Poliba professor  

Bari, 2 July 2026 – The Italian Association of Applied and Environmental Geology (AIGAA) has awarded Professors Vincenzo Simeone, Full Professor of Geoengineering at the Polytechnic University of Bari, and Francesco Guadagno (University of Sannio) the “Vincenzo Cotecchia” award for the best professional contribution in the field of Applied Geology. These are topics for which Prof. Vincenzo Cotecchia, a pioneer and distinguished professor at Poliba, was for years an undisputed reference point both scientifically and professionally at national and international level. The award was presented during the Association’s national conference held in Catania on 29–30 June.

The reasons for the award are linked to the challenges arising from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and the planned works, which led the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport to revolutionize the design process. 

In this context, Professors Vincenzo Simeone and Francesco Maria Guadagno have, since 2021, as expert members in Applied Geology of the Special Committee of the Superior Council of Public Works, overseen the review of numerous major works, including: sections of high-speed railway, the Trento bypass; the Salerno–Reggio Calabria motorway; the Port of Trieste; the Campo Lattaro Dam (BN).

Their contributions have demonstrated the strategic importance of geological and applied geology studies in design and in Technical and Economic Feasibility Projects.

Their work has made it possible to highlight within the Higher Council of Public Works that, as they state, “ geological knowledge must play a central role in decision-making phases, actively guiding design choices, becoming true project geology”. 

The main conclusions of their work were condensed in a paper entitled The strategic importance of geological studies in the Technical and Economic Feasibility Project under the new Procurement Code. Published in the journal Geologia Tecnica.

More generally, the prestigious recognition highlights the scientific contribution of the two professors, aimed at demonstrating the engineering and design strategic importance of Applied Geology studies for Technical and Economic Feasibility Projects (PFTE).

The award ceremony was attended by the President of theItalian Association of Applied and Environmental Geology (AIGAA), Monica Papini (PoliMi), and the Vice-President, Pantaleone De Vita (UniNa- Federico II).

Press release.

8th edition. First Prize for the degree thesis of the Italian National Committee for Large Dams

Bradano-Basento, management scenarios for water resource management in Basilicata

The research of the winner, Giulia Acconciaioco: the drinking water sector turns out to be the most penalized. The Camastra dam emerges as the main critical element. The recovery of the capacity of existing reservoirs and the completion of interconnections between basins are configured as strategic interventions to strengthen the overall resilience of the system and reduce its vulnerability to periods of drought

Bari, 22 June 2026 – A new climatic context. Water resource management is now one of the main challenges for Southern Italy. Rising temperatures, irregular rainfall and the increasing frequency of extreme events are putting pressure on supply systems designed in a climatic context profoundly different from the current one. 

Hydrographic basin. When speaking of water supply, one tends to imagine a simple path, from the source to the tap. In reality, the availability of water for cities, agriculture and productive activities depends on extremely complex infrastructure systems. Rainwater falling on the ground naturally flows into the watercourses of the relevant hydrographic basin.

In many cases, this resource is collected and stored in artificial lakes created by dams, so that it can be used during drier periods or when demand increases.

Water schemes. The set of these water collection, transport and distribution works constitutes the so-called water schemes, which are fundamental for resource management in Southern Italy.

La Basilicata. In this context, the Basilicata region plays a strategic role thanks to the presence of important watercourses, including the Bradano, Basento, Agri, Sinni, Cavone and Noce. Combined with favorable geomorphological characteristics, the region hosts one of the most significant water storage systems in Southern Italy.

The resources stored in the reservoirs of Basilicata, in fact, not only meet the needs of Basilicata itself, but are partly transferred to Puglia, where they support drinking water and irrigation supply in the central-northern areas of the region. 

The Bradano-Basento water scheme. Among the most relevant infrastructures is the Bradano-Basento water scheme, an articulated system of reservoirs, weirs and transfer works that plays a fundamental role for drinking, irrigation and industrial uses in the central-eastern area of Basilicata. The scheme includes the reservoirs of Pantano di Pignola, Camastra, Acerenza, Genzano and Serra del Corvo, as well as the weirs (linking infrastructures) of Trivigno and Orto del Tufo on the Basento River. 

Critical issues. Despite its strategic importance, the Bradano-Basento water scheme presents some critical issues linked to the incomplete completion of part of the planned works, the silting up of reservoirs, the aging of infrastructure and the need to modernize monitoring and management systems. These problems, together with the effects of climate change, have helped bring the issue of water security back to the center of attention, as shown, for example, by the crisis that affected the Potenza area in recent years.

This has highlighted the need, alongside infrastructure interventions, to seek advanced analysis and planning tools for such networks in order to improve their ability to respond to crisis situations. 

The research thesis. In this context lies the research work of the degree thesis, “Assessment of water resource management scenarios for the Bradano-Basento system” by Giulia Acconciaioco, 26, from Barletta, now a PhD candidate at Poliba.

1st prize. The thesis won the 8th edition of the ITCOLD 2026 Degree Award, dedicated to the best university theses focused on dams and water resource management. The initiative is promoted by the Italian National Committee for Large Dams, ITCOLD, a scientific association that promotes the study of issues related to dams, their construction, and their operation. The award is part of the activities through which ITCOLD promotes research and innovation in the field of large dams and water infrastructure, highlighting the most innovative scientific contributions in the national landscape.

The thesis (supervisor, Prof. Vito Iacobellis) was developed at the Department of Civil, Environmental, Land, Building and Chemical Engineering – DICATECh of Poliba. 

Ambiente WEAP. The study was developed through the creation of a model in the WEAP environment (Water Evaluation and Planning System). The model made it possible to represent the operation of reservoirs, transfer works, and the main drinking, irrigation, and industrial demands, providing an overall view of the system’s behavior under realistic management conditions. 

The limitations identified. The results showed that the Bradano-Basento scheme, while overall ensuring the satisfaction of irrigation demands, does not yet fully express its potential due to infrastructural and management constraints. 

Drinking water, Camastra dam. The drinking-water sector is the one most penalized by the current limitations of the supply system. In this context, the Camastra reservoir (Trivigno - PZ) emerges as the main critical element, significantly affecting the security of drinking-water supply, with clear repercussions on the urban areas of the Potenza region. 

Prospects and interventions. The study analyzed several infrastructure enhancement scenarios, assuming the completion of the works originally planned and now partly already funded under the Reservoir Plan 2020-2029. In particular, the simulations assessed the effects of restoring the full storage capacity of the Acerenza and Genzano reservoirs and the full operation of the other infrastructures. The possibility of expanding irrigable areas through more flexible management of water transfers between reservoirs was also analyzed. The simulations showed how these interventions can make the system more flexible and efficient, enabling more rational resource management and greater responsiveness during periods of higher water demand. The analysis was also extended to the effects of climate change. In this scenario, restoring the capacity of existing reservoirs and completing interconnections between basins are strategic interventions to strengthen the overall resilience of the system, reduce its vulnerability to drought periods, and improve the reliability of water supply.

Press release.

Area of interest

Workshop. It has been installed in the PolySense laboratory, Department of Physics, Uniba-Poliba

First in Italy. Presentation of the new Quantum Cascade Laser infrared microscope for biomedical applications

Unlike conventional histological techniques, the new technology makes it possible to obtain images based on the chemical and molecular composition of the sample, without the use of dyes or reagents. Through the analysis of the infrared fingerprint of the biomolecules present in the tissues, it is possible to distinguish healthy and pathological cells, identify metabolic alterations, and provide an automatic classification

The new quantum cascade laser microscope.

Bari, 17 June 2026 – The international Workshop “Infrared Microscopy with Quantum Cascade Laser for Biomedical Applications”, scheduled Friday, 19 June, 10:20 a.m., at the Interuniversity Department of Physics, Uniba-Poliba, will be dedicated to the latest frontiers of infrared microscopy and molecular imaging applied to the life sciences. 

The scientific event, which will bring together experts from the academic, clinical, and industrial sectors, is of particular significance for the official presentation of the new infrared microscope with Quantum Cascade Laser (Quantum Cascade Laser – QCL).

Manufactured by Bruker Corporation 1960, 90 locations worldwide, valued at 450 thousand euros, it is the first system of this type marketed and installed in Italy. The new technology, located at the PolySense Lab of the Polytechnic (scientific lead, Prof. Vincenzo Spagnolo), Department of Physics, places Bari among the leading national centers for research in advanced biochemical imaging.

Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) microscopy is an emerging technology capable of revolutionizing the analysis of biological tissues. Unlike conventional histological techniques, it makes it possible to obtain images based on the chemical and molecular composition of the sample, without the use of dyes or reagents. Through the analysis of the “infrared fingerprint” of the biomolecules present in the tissues, it is possible to distinguish healthy and pathological cells, identify metabolic alterations, and support advanced automatic classification systems based on artificial intelligence algorithms. 

The acquisition of the microscope is the result of a strategic collaboration between the Department of Electrical and Information Engineering (DEI) of the Polytechnic and the Interuniversity Department of Physics, made possible thanks to the activities of the “D³4Health” Foundation and the joint contribution of Spoke 2 – IN²LAB and Spoke 3 – PolySense Lab. This synergy has made it possible to create a research infrastructure unique in the national landscape, intended to support interdisciplinary research activities in the fields of precision medicine, digital pathology, and artificial intelligence applied to health.

Workshop. The program. 10:20 a.m.. Aula A. Department of Physics (university campus). Presentations dedicated to the strategy of the “D³4Health” Foundation for precision medicine, the applications of infrared microscopy on biological samples, risk stratification in prostate cancer through QCL spectroscopy, and the latest developments in intelligent digital pathology. 

Speakers include: Prof. Dougal Ferguson, University of Manchester, Dr. Diego Sali, Bruker Optics, Prof. Vitoantonio Bevilacqua, Polytechnic University of Bari, Prof. Andrea Zifarelli, PolySense Lab, Dr. Lorena Nappa, D³4Health Foundation. 

In the afternoon, participants will have the opportunity to visit the PolySense Lab and attend a practical demonstration of the new QCL microscope, observing directly its acquisition and analysis capabilities on biological samples. 

The initiative confirms Bari’s growing role as an international center of excellence in photonic technologies for health and in the development of advanced infrastructures for interdisciplinary research, with the aim of accelerating the transfer of scientific innovations into concrete clinical applications.

Press release.
 

 

Construction & leases. Tomorrow, 17 June, 9:00 a.m., ARCOD Department main lecture hall

Short-term tourist rentals in cities

Structural dynamics and regulatory initiatives. The draft law of the Apulia Region on the regulation of the short-term rental phenomenon

Bari, 16 June 2026 – An event will be held in Bari tomorrow, 17 June, 9:00 a.m., in the main lecture hall of the Department of Architecture, Construction, Design (ARCOD) of the Polytechnic University (university campus), a study day on short-term tourist rentals in Italian cities will take place. Structural dynamics and regulatory initiatives, with a focus dedicated to the city of Bari. It constitutes the in-depth study of the AIRMAP research.

The initiative follows two previous events devoted to the topic: Turin, 22 May, to provide a detailed overview of the main characteristics of the short-term rental phenomenon—from its spread to its economic performance, from its geographical distribution to the characteristics of those managing the listings, and its evolution over the period 2017–2024—and 25 May, held at the headquarters of the Apulia Region, to present a joint Uniba–Poliba study focusing on the city of Bari.

On the outcomes of this process and of the analytical work on the phenomenon (see https://full.polito.it/airmap/), the national and local research dedicated to the topic will be extensively presented, also in order to stimulate an updated reflection on the forthcoming draft Regional Law on the regulation of the short-term rental phenomenon.

The day, 9:00 a.m., will be introduced by the rectors of Poliba, Umberto Fratino, and of Uniba, Roberto Bellotti. Two sessions will follow. 

At 9:15 a.m. First session. 

The structural dynamics. Chaired by Mariella Annese - Polytechnic University of Bari

Presentation: The framework of Italian cities. Loris Servillo - Polytechnic University of Turin

Talk: The case of Bari. Fabrizio D'Alessandro - Polytechnic University of Bari

Talk: Rental market and student housing. Francesco Prota - University of Bari "Aldo Moro"

11:00 a.m. Second session.

Regulatory initiatives

Chaired by Nicola Martinelli - Polytechnic University of Bari

Presentation: the regulatory framework in Italy. Filippo Celata - Sapienza University of Rome

Talk: Lessons from Barcelona. Giovanna Mangialardi - Polytechnic University of Bari

Talk: The case of Apulia. Angela Barbanente - Polytechnic University of Bari

Talk. Giovanna Iacovone - Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Bari

Conclusions

Gianfranco Viesti - University of Bari Aldo Moro

The initiative is organized by the Polytechnic University of Bari and the University of Bari “Aldo Moro”.

Press release.

Architecture & urban planning. The winners of the Municipality of Bari Scholarship 

A thesis for the city. The modernity of Bari's monumental seafronts

Six young newly graduated architects from Poliba, between history and the present, and a project for the Marisabella port area. The proposal selected for exhibition at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of Venice

Bari, 15 June 2026 – “The Modernity of Bari’s Monumental Seafronts” is the title of the degree thesis in architecture by six young people from Apulia at the Polytechnic University of Bari. In addition to enabling graduation, the work received positive recognition in a specific section of the Municipality of Bari call dedicated to degree theses on the city, academic year 2023-24. 

The thesis, awarded together with others with a scholarship of 1,546.00 euro, was developed in the Department of Architecture, Construction and Design (ArCoD) of Poliba. The work was carried out by Alessia Biagiotti from Taranto; Alessia Camporeale and Tiziana Caravella (Molfetta - BA); Stella Conte (Giuggianello – LE); Nicola Antonio Corallo (Bari); Michele Dell’Olio (Bisceglie – BA); Supervisor, Prof. Matteo Ieva with the contribution of other researchers. 

Traces of the journey. The research thesis spans 263 pages. It is an in-depth survey of the urban and architectural dynamics of the city, supported by documentary research, much of it unpublished. The vicissitudes of a medieval Bari enclosed within the walls of the seaside borough emerge at the end of the 18th century. King Joachim Murat (1767-1815) officially became its interpreter in the first decade of the 19th century. The modern history of an expansion still ongoing begins. After a broad account of the dynamics throughout the century, the study examines and focuses on the architecture of the 1920s and 1930s, set against the backdrop of the two newly created seafront promenades. Even today, a century later, the seafronts, with their complement of public buildings (period: early 1920s to early 1960s), represent the modern city of Bari in the world. In this process of transformation, the role and work of the Apulian architect Saverio Dioguardi emerge, as author and interpreter of the monumentality of modern Bari. The work ultimately looks to the future with the proposal of a new arrangement for the modern port area of Marisabella. 

The contents. The introduction and historical-urban-planning contextualisation of Bari through the city’s expansion plans, up to 1934, provides insight into the dynamics of the period and the debate that emerged during the first half of the twentieth century. Fundamental to the development of the new Bari was Gioacchino Murat’s extramural district of 1813, which evolved from the outlines and expansion plans of 1780–1790 under the reign of Ferdinand IV (1751–1825). This expansion arose from the need for sanitary hygiene, fire safety, ventilation, and to address overcrowding. The grid layout promoted orderly development and improved living conditions and safety. The paving of the new Bari began in 1830. Several public buildings were erected: the Piccini Theatre, 1840; the Church of San Ferdinando, 1844; the Cemetery, 1842. The railway station, the hub of modernity, was built in 1864. At the same time, the city’s population grew: 18 thousand inhabitants in 1790; 30 thousand in 1861, with the unification of Italy; 50 thousand in 1871, thus becoming one of the principal cities of southern Italy. A series of urban-development and regulatory plans became the focus of the city’s debate around 1900, laying the foundations for a new era in the city’s history. Bari began to display a new and flourishing architectural output. 1926 was the turning point. The government of the time envisaged a new project for Bari, as part of the development of southern Italy and the expansion of trade. Within this strategic plan, construction assumed an extremely important role from an economic perspective. That year, Araldo Di Crollalanza (1892–1986) was appointed Bari’s first Podestà. He would become a decisive figure. In accordance with the new directives issued by Rome, he accelerated initiatives to make the Apulian capital a link between the West and the East, the Gateway to the East. For Di Crollalanza, the policy of massively increasing public works represented the main path towards modernisation. In 1930, Di Crollalanza was appointed Minister of Public Works (1930-35). His rise was dominant in the field of public administration. To consolidate the image of a city devoted to the party, he undertook the construction of representative works, including Bari’s two seafront boulevards, Nazario Sauro and Vittorio Veneto, already envisaged in 1918, along which public buildings serving various functions were constructed. The seafront boulevards became a true founding symbol of the new city, an authentic success of Bari with its distinctive character, its backbone and its line of osmosis with the sea, which was transformed from a source of profit into a symbol. 

Architecture assumed a role of primary importance in interpreting and conveying messages of political propaganda, but also of an image of national renewal. In the same period, the road section “Imperatore Augusto” seafront was added to connect the two parts of the seafront and encircle the old town. The project for the new port stood out. The ancient problem of interconnection between the old city and the modern part remained. A project, shown to Mussolini in 1926, proposed the demolition and reconstruction of Bari Vecchia. A Great Gallery dedicated to the Duce was planned. Only the Cathedral, Basilica, and Castle were to be saved. The project was never carried out.

The activism of the Minister, Di Crollanza, in those years encountered one of the most important Apulian architects: Saverio Dioguardi (1888–1961). Dioguardi, at the height of his renown in 1934, was able, more than others, to unite the imagination of the built form with the experience of “doing” proper to the construction site, interpreting and combining materials and construction techniques in their most appropriate use, such as the use of iron and reinforced concrete already from the early 1910s. 

To this bold figure of an architect, the thesis dedicates an extensive description of his professional path, tracing and listing all the projects, both realized and unrealized, many of which came from what would also become his major family construction enterprise.

Dioguardi translated into works the symbols, the principles, the idea of a new “Polis” of a “Great Bari,” envisioned by Di Crollalanza, overlooking the Sea that had been the “Gulf of Venice,” culturally enriched by the newly founded Royal Adriatic University “Benito Mussolini” (1924) and commercially by the Levante Fair (1930).

Unlike the architecture of other dictatorships, uniform, repetitive, and monotonous, that of the twenty-year period stood out for its stylistic variety, the result of freedom of individual expression, without degenerating into anarchy.

Within this context of Bari in the 1930s, Dioguardi emerges as a pivotal figure. Among his works, the thesis carefully analyzes, including research at the State Archives of Bari, two works in which he was the protagonist: the Command Barracks of the Fourth Territorial Air Zone (IV Z.A.T.), now the Command of the A.M. Schools, III Air Region built between 1932 and 1935, Nazario Sauro Seafront, and the Barracks of the Voluntary Militia for National Security, designed in 1933, built between 1934 and 1939, currently known as the Barracks of the “Pinerolo” Mechanized Brigade, Vittorio Veneto Seafront. 

The reading of the monumental features of Dioguardi’s two barracks is central to the entire work, due to the extent of the documentary survey. In particular, for the III Air Region, the didactic component of the survey is added, for a graphic restitution of the current state and the energy analysis. For both, the description of the analysis of the state of conservation for a possible restoration is also included. The reading of these documents and graphic drawings makes it possible to understand the various construction phases of these structures and their significance. 

These buildings and others, erected with the clear intent of asserting themselves along the coastal strip in a direct relationship with the sea, perceived as a single frontage, still continue today to tell their theatricality. This condition applies above all to the Nazario Sauro seafront, not to the Vittorio Veneto seafront, whose function over the years has increasingly shifted toward an industrial character through the construction of structures and warehouses on the sea side. The loss of the sea-facing aspect of this seafront has led to the search for a new interpretation and a new approach so that the city could once again reclaim a sea view. The thesis identifies a portion of the reclaimed land, “Marisabella,” facing the “Pinerolo” Barracks. A series of historical studies, the existing conditions, and mobility considerations led to the identification of a sustainable proposal. 

The use of greenery, as a filter for reclaiming urban quality and enhancing it, the Sea Museum, the headquarters for the Port Authority’s executive offices, and other infrastructures, were intended, according to the proposal, to constitute a monumental “anti-seafront.” The project envisioned by the six recent graduates, in fact, aims to create a transition respectful of the existing fabric, enhancing an area that is currently covered in asphalt because it is used as a parking lot, and seeks to create and offer the city a different way of relating to the sea.

The winning proposal was selected for exhibition at the 19th Venice International Architecture Exhibition. Here is the project video: https://youtu.be/9PMRJM0nRFs 

Press release.

 

The Concerts of the Politecnico. Thursday, 11 June, the final event of the 7th edition 2026

 Visions in Music, the Choir and Cinema

Investigation into the relationship between music and cinematic imagery

Bari, 8 June 2026 – “Visions in Music, the Choir and Cinema” is a project by the “Poliba Chorus” that explores the relationship between music and cinematic imagery. The project examines the role of music as an autonomous narrative element, capable of amplifying emotion, defining identity, and guiding the viewer’s perception. Through a repertoire spanning composers and contemporary authors, the project analyses the soundtrack as a true “character” in the film narrative. An artistic and production journey that enhances the synergy between sound and vision, placing the choir at the centre of contemporary audiovisual language.

The event, scheduled Thursday, 11 June, 6:30 p.m. at the Rectorate headquarters of the Polytechnic University (university campus), will feature the Poliba Chorus with its conductor, Alessandro Fortunato. Free admission, subject to reservation via the following link: https://www.eventbrite.it/e/visioni-in-musica-tickets-1984609939754?aff=oddtdtcreatoruntil all places are filled. Final deadline for registration: 11 June, 12:00 p.m.

The protagonists. Antonio Alessandro Fortunato, born in 1985, graduated in organ and piano. He obtained a master’s degree in music therapy, attending courses in pedagogy and music education at the Orff Institute in Salzburg. Passionate about the voice and choral singing, he attended courses in singing and teaching for functional vocal technique. He studied choral conducting with internationally renowned choir conductors. He is the conductor of theApulia Cantat with which he has taken part in numerous national and international competitions. He is a harpsichordist at the Fondazione Teatro Petruzzelli

The Poliba Chorus was founded in 2021 on the basis of a structured collaboration between the Polytechnic University of Bari and ARCoPu. It is a musical and educational project open to choristers, students, and music enthusiasts. The choral experience is entrusted to the guidance of Maestro Alessandro Fortunato. 

“The Concerts of the Polytechnic University”, 7th edition, is an initiative of the Polytechnic University of Bari and ARCoPu (Regional Association of Apulian Choirs) with the support of the Apulia Region.

Press release.

The Future of the Archeology. Study day, Friday, 5 June, Convent of Santa Chiara 

Preventive and predictive actions for the conservation of archaeological and monumental heritage

The preservation of this heritage cannot disregard the adoption of preventive and predictive approaches, capable of intercepting deterioration phenomena in their initial stages and supporting protection and intervention decisions. In this direction lies the pilot project "Predictive monitoring system for the conservation of archaeological sites and monumental buildings", funded by the Ministry of Culture - MiC

Bari, 3 June 2026 - The archaeological and monumental heritage that characterizes the Italian territory constitutes a testimony of universal value to the history and cultural identity of our country, but at the same time it represents a particularly vulnerable legacy, exposed to the combined effects of material aging, environmental and human stresses, as well as natural risks affecting the Mediterranean Area. 

The preservation of this heritage cannot today disregard the adoption of preventive and predictive approaches, capable of intercepting deterioration phenomena in their initial stages and supporting, on an objective basis, protection and intervention decisions.

In this direction lies the pilot project "Predictive monitoring system for the conservation of archaeological sites and monumental buildings", promoted by the Central Institute for the Digitization of Cultural Heritage – Digital Library of the Ministry of Culture, within which the study day is included "The Future of the Archeology", scheduled for Friday, June 5, at 11:00 a.m., a Bari, old town, at the Chiostro of the Convent of Santa Chiara (at Pier L’Eremita, 25/b).

The study day, organized by the Polytechnic University of Bari (scientific coordinator, Prof. Dora Foti, ARCOD Department), stems from the awareness that the safeguarding of historic buildings requires a paradigm shift, from the traditional model of post-event intervention to data-informed management, based on the integration of in-depth knowledge of the artifact, digital technologies and Structural Health Monitoring systems for the continuous control of its behavior.

The day will be divided into four scientific sessions, with presentations aimed at exploring the most advanced digital methodologies for the preventive safeguarding of archaeological and monumental heritage. Particular attention will be devoted to survey and non-destructive diagnostic techniques, data management and querying tools, as well as structural monitoring strategies aimed at more effective protection of historic architecture.

A dedicated space will be reserved for the presentation of the results of the pilot project "Predictive monitoring system for the conservation of archaeological sites and monumental buildings", funded by the Ministry of Culture, concerning the application of a structural monitoring system to the Female Baths complex in Pompeii, a paradigmatic case study for the complexity of conservation issues. Continuing education credits are предусмотрены for engineers and architects from their respective professional associations.

Programme 

11:00 | Institutional greetings

Superintendent of the Metropolitan City of Bari - Dr. F.R. Paolillo, Director of the Swabian Castle of Bari-Regional Directorate of National Museums of Apulia and Acting Superintendent BAT-FG– Arch. Anita Guarnieri

Rector of the Polytechnic University of Bari - Prof. Ing. U. Fratino 

Director General of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii - Dott. G. Zuchtriegel

Director General for Digitization and Communication, MiC - Dott. A. De Pasquale

President of the Order of Engineers of Bari - Ing. C. Contesi 

President of the Order of Engineers of Naples - Prof. Ing. A. Prota

President of the Order of Architects of Bari - Architect C.D. Mastronardi 

National President of A.I.D.I.A. - Arch. A. Vella

Director of the ArCoD Department - Prof. Arch. F. Defilippis 

12:00 Session I 

Dora Foti – Polytechnic University of Bari - “Identification of the dynamic behavior of non-structural walls in antiquity: the case of Pompeii”. Giuliano Romalli – Central Institute for the Digitization of Cultural Heritage – Digital Library - “Digital Library and the creation of Ecomic. A national ecosystem for the protection, enjoyment and enhancement of cultural heritage”. Francesca Romana Paolillo, Caterina Annese, Elena Dellù –Superintendency of the Metropolitan City of Bari -“The activities of the ABAP Superintendency for the metropolitan city of Bari: multidisciplinary and experimental methodologies for the protection and conservation monitoring of the archaeological heritage of the territory. “Anita Guarnieri, Savino Gallo, Annalinda Iacoviello - Swabian Castle of Bari-Regional Directorate of National Museums of Apulia and Superintendency BAT-FG– “Protection and enhancement: ongoing projects curated by the Swabian Castle of Bari, DRMN Puglia and the ABAP BAT-FG Superintendency“

14:30 | Session II

Luigi Oliva – Central Institute for Restoration, MiC - “Research paths of the ICR in the conservation of archaeological heritage”. Arianna Traviglia – Center for Cultural Heritage Technology – ITT Venice - “From robotics to structural monitoring: new technologies for the protection of archaeological sites”. Alessandra Zambrano – R&I Manager, Archaeological Park of Pompeii, MiC - “R&I for the conservation of archaeological sites: the Pompeii experience”

3:30 p.m. | Session III

Francesca Ceroni – University of Naples “Parthenope” - “Vulnerability to out-of-plane mechanisms of masonry elements in the Archaeological Park of Pompeii.” Lorenza Petrini – Politecnico di Milano - “Towards an integrated approach to diagnostics and structural analysis: the case of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii.” Stefano Podestà – University of Genoa - “Roofing systems for archaeological sites: the case study of the archaeological site of Villa Arianna in Castellamare di Stabia – Archaeological Park of Pompeii”

4:30 p.m. | Session IV

Gian Piero Lignola – University of Naples “Federico II” - “Innovative structural solutions in the archaeological area of Pompeii.”. Giacomo Martines – Polytechnic University of Bari -“The preventive safeguarding of Cultural Heritage from conservation theory to the potential offered by predictive technologies”. Michele Antonicelli – Planetek Italia -“Satellite monitoring for the safeguarding of historical and cultural heritage”.

Press release.

Press conference.  Tomorrow, Thursday 4 June, Metropolitan City of Bari Palace 

Music under the metropolitan stars

Presentation of the summer programme of the Symphony Orchestra of the Metropolitan City of Bari. More than 30 concerts are scheduled in numerous municipalities across the metropolitan area

Bari, 3 June 2026 - Tomorrow, Thursday 4 June, at 10:30 a.m., in the Giunta Hall of the Palace of the Metropolitan City of Bari (Lungomare Nazario Sauro, 29), the press conference presenting “Music under the metropolitan stars”, the summer programme of the Symphony Orchestra of the Metropolitan City of Bari, will be held.

The programme includes more than 30 concerts that will take place in numerous municipalities across the metropolitan area, as well as university spaces, hospitals and sports centres, with the aim of bringing symphonic music ever closer to students, lecturers, patients and citizens.

The programme combines culture, education and civic participation, enhancing the role of music as a tool for inclusion and sharing.

The Metropolitan Mayor Vito Leccese, the Rectors of the University of Bari “Aldo Moro” and the Polytechnic University of Bari Roberto Bellotti and Umberto Fratino, the Metropolitan City of Bari Councillor delegated to socio-cultural promotion and tourism, protection and enhancement of archaeological, documentary and library heritage and Metropolitan Orchestra Francesca Bottalico, the General Director of the Bari University Hospital “Policlinico” Antonio Sanguedolce, the President of CUS (University Sports Centre) Bari Antonio Prezioso, the Artistic Director of the Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra Vito Clemente, the Director of the Department for the Promotion and Coordination of Economic, Social and Cultural Development Raffaele Nicola Vitto and the Mayors of the municipalities in the metropolitan area will speak.

Press release.

Second-level Master’s degree. Call for applications published. Presentation of the second edition on 9 June at Poliba 

Terna and the Polytechnic University of Bari present the Master’s programme on "Innovation in Electrical Systems for Energy"

At the end of the training programme, participants will obtain the Master’s degree awarded jointly by the Polytechnics of Bari, Milan and Turin. The initiative, fully funded by Terna, is part of PoliTech Lab, the Polytechnic Network of Advanced Expertise. Each Polytechnic will nominate 15 selected students, for a total of 45. Teaching activities will take place at the three universities and at the Terna Academy Campus in Rome. Application deadline: 8 September

Bari, 30 May 2026 - The call for applications for the second edition of the Second-Level Master’s programme in “Innovation in Electrical Systems for Energy”, promoted by Terna with the Polytechnics of Bari, Milan and Turin within PoliTech Lab, the Polytechnic Network of Advanced Expertise. 

In this regard, the 9 June the Polytechnic University of Bari will host the presentation event of the second edition to illustrate to the recent graduates present, or connected via streaming, the educational offer, the details of the planned subjects, the objectives of the initiative and the organisational aspects.

The Master’s programme will train professionals called upon to develop and manage the National Transmission Grid of the coming decades, creating highly specialised profiles such as: plant and technology experts, asset management, power electrical systems​, markets and regulation. At the end of the programme, participants will obtain the Master’s degree jointly awarded by the Polytechnics of Bari, Milan and Turin.

For students holding a master’s degree in Automation, Electrical, Electronic, Energy and Nuclear, Management, Computer and Mechanical Engineering, it will be possible until 8 September to submit the application for admission to the one-year Master’s programme, which will begin in November. The commitment required of the 45 selected students, 15 for each University, is 1,500 hours to obtain 60 credits. The participation costs will be fully covered by Terna, which will award each admitted candidate a scholarship. At the end of the programme, the Master’s participants will be placed within the Terna Group.

The program includes lectures, exercises, laboratory sessions, supplementary seminars, plant visits, and a final practical experience in a company. The training program is delivered in person and in Italian, with a multidisciplinary teaching staff drawn from the research and industry sectors. The teaching activities will take place not only at the three universities but also at the Terna Academy Campus in Rome.

Here is the full call for applications: https://www.polimi.it/formazione/formazione-oltre-la-laurea/master-universitari-e-corsi-post-laurea/dettaglio-master/3297

Press release.

Twenty-eight university internships at the Quirinale and at the Presidential Estate of Castelporziano

During the activities, students will deepen their scientific knowledge, alternating study and research. The internships will have a total duration of 150 hours

Bari, 28 May 2026 – It is online until 16 June 2026 (https://tirocinicrui.app) the call for applications for 28 curricular internships at the Quirinal Palace and the Presidential Estate of Castelporziano. 

For the initiative, promoted by the CRUI Foundation in collaboration with the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic, applications may be submitted students from the 45 Italian universities participating in the program (including the Polytechnic University of Bari), who are enrolled in bachelor's degree, master's degree, or single-cycle degree programs.

The 28 internships will be organized as follows, by location and period: the 22 curricular internships at the Quirinal Palace will take place in two cycles: late September–late November 2026 and November 2026–February 2027, while the 6 internships at the Castelporziano Estate will take place in a single period: September–November 2026.

Applicants must have earned at least 120 ECTS credits in the case of three-year and single-cycle degree programmes, or at least 18 ECTS credits for master's degree programmes. They must also demonstrate knowledge of the English language at least at B1 level.

The internships will have a total duration of 150 hours. During the activities, students will deepen their scientific knowledge, alternating study and research, and will also develop communication and scientific outreach skills. 

The internship includes a flat-rate expense reimbursement of 600 euros. 

Here the selection notice: https://www.tirocinicrui.it/al-via-28-tirocini-curriculari-al-quirinale-castelporziano/

The universities involvedBari, Bari LUM G. Degennaro, Polytechnic of Bari, Bergamo, Bologna, Brescia, Cagliari, Calabria, Campania Vanvitelli, Chieti Pescara, Firenze, L'Aquila, Macerata, Messina, Milano, Napoli Federico II, Napoli l'Orientale, Napoli Suor O. Benincasa, Padova, Palermo, Parma, Pavia, Pavia IUSS, Perugia, Perugia Stranieri, Piemonte Orientale, Roma Link Campus, Roma LUISS G. Carli, Roma LUMSA, Roma Sapienza, Roma Tor Vergata, Roma Tre, Salento, Salerno, Scuola Normale Superiore, Siena, Siena Stranieri, Teramo, Torino, Trieste, Tuscia, Udine, Urbino, Venezia Ca' Foscari, Verona.

Press release.

Intelligence. 7th edition of the “A Thesis for National Security” Award

Marco Olivieri, Polytechnic University of Bari, among the seven winners of theses on national security

The awarded study concerns an innovative interception architecture capable of capturing and sharing with the Authorities traffic originating from any point in the 5G network and, at the same time, enabling the traffic intercepted in the network to be decrypted. The research was carried out in the Telematics and iTNT-NS laboratories of the Department of Electrical and Information Engineering of Poliba

Bari, May 19, 2026 – Seven young graduates, seven degree research projects, seven awards for a single common thread: putting university knowledge at the service of national security, with ideas, skills, and tools. 

Among the seven national awardees is also Marco Olivieri. Twenty-five years old, from Matera, with a master's degree in Telecommunications Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Bari in 2025, grade 110/110 with honors (supervisor Prof. Giuseppe Piro), who with his degree thesis, a study on “an innovative architecture for lawful interception in future mobile telecommunications systems” has been awarded, together with six other colleagues, by the selection committee of the 7th edition of the “A Thesis for National Security” Award. Initiative promoted by the Department of Information for Security(DIS), Presidency of the Council of Ministers, with the aim of bringing young people closer to the world of Intelligence and promoting the study of strategic issues for the protection of national interests. Since 2014, the Award has established itself over time as one of the main initiatives of Italian Intelligence for the promotion of security culture. 

The award ceremony took place yesterday, May 18, in Rome, at Palazzo Dante, headquarters of the Italian Intelligence. The winners were awarded by the Director General of DIS Vittorio Rizzi, by the Director of AISE Giovanni Caravelli and by the Director of AISI Bruno Valensise.

“In Europe – the winner Marco Olivieri states - more than 80% of criminal networks threaten strategic assets for socio-economic development through activities such as cybercrime, illicit trafficking in drugs, firearms and explosives, environmental crimes, fraud, counterfeiting, crimes against the person, and organized property crimes. In this context, lawful interceptions represent an investigative tool of enormous strategic value for the Authorities. They make it possible to prevent, identify, and investigate serious crimes and terrorist phenomena, supporting both intelligence activities and the collection of evidence usable in judicial proceedings. The continuous evolution of telecommunications and digital infrastructures – continues - inevitably requires constant updating of interception technologies and methodologies. 

The thesis work carried out in the “Wireless Network Security” course, in collaboration with the research group affiliated with the Telematics and iTNT-NS laboratories of the Department of Electrical and Information Engineering of the Polytechnic University of Bari, has helped provide new concrete and effective solutions. The designed and experimentally validated solution is structured around two distinct aspects. On the one hand, an innovative interception architecture has been defined, capable of capturing and sharing with the competent Authorities traffic originating from any point in the 5G network. On the other hand, the use of advanced cryptographic algorithms, known as key escrow, has been proposed, through which it is possible to ensure the protection of communications and, at the same time, allow authorized Authorities to decrypt intercepted traffic in the network. The proposed solution – concludes with satisfaction - ensures an effective balance between privacy protection and public security requirements.

Congratulations from the Rector, Umberto Fratino, to Marco Olivieri.

For the 7th edition of Award “A thesis for national security” there were 98 applications from 35 Italian universities. The Committee awarded 7 prizes, worth 3,000 euros each, for the best master's theses dedicated to topics of intelligence and national security interest. 

The award-winning works address the challenges currently facing the country’s security: from the vulnerability of artificial intelligence models to competition for critical minerals; from energy and environmental security to anti-satellite warfare; from countering coordinated disinformation to new architectures for lawful interception in 5G; and from nuclear proliferation to the resilience of international strategic balances.

The winners of the 7th edition: Mattia Alfano, University of Milan; Matteo Gioele Collu, University of Padua; Marco Inzerillo, LUISS Guido Carli University of Rome. Luca Mazzini, University of Florence; Elisa Muratore, University of Trento; Marco Olivieri, Polytechnic University of Bari; Camilla Tuan, Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna.

Press release.