The symposium style

The ISSHAC symposium has been known for its unique symposium style. The symposium program is ample and there is little time for formal discussion. Instead, the program places emphasis on the creation of a maximum number of opportunities for informal discussion and the facilitation of direct person-to-person exchanges of ideas. The extended social program provides numerous such opportunities for informal discussions. Interaction-encouraging social programs are offered every day in the late afternoon and evening.

In organizing the first event and subsequent ISSHAC symposia we have followed the principle that each symposium should be located in a different but attractive place, to offer an opportunity for participants to enjoy the science, the collegiality, and the cultural ambience at each meeting. In doing this, we have followed the timeless Roman dictum that the "spirit of place", the ambiance, is crucial to the success of an enterprise.

The social program of the ISSHAC-8 will offer new and equally unforgettable attractions. There will be a guided excursion to the Royal Castle - Wawel, as well as the visits to other several historically important objects of the medieval city.

The visit to the Royal Castle will end with visiting the cave inhabited by a dragon which once was killed by a young brave knight who then married the king's daughter.

Some of the excursions will take us out of the city. For instance, we will visit the historical salt mine of Wieliczka - the oldest salt mine in Europe, which has been in operation for at least 700 years. This is one of the regional best-known tourist attractions, having countless visitors including Kings, Emperors, Presidents, and famous artists.

Apart from the social events organized for all the participants, there is always a special program for accompanying persons organized during the conference hours. There is always an English-speaking guide taking a permanent whole-day motherlike care of the accompanying persons. In addition, there are special English-speaking guides in the places visited by the group.