We are happy to announce, that the 35th ICARUS Convention will be held at the State Archives of Venice (Archivio di Stato di Venezia) from 12 to 14 November 2025, in the very heart of the historic city, at Campo dei Frari 3002.
Following the topic “Bridging Centuries: Digital Pathways for Medieval Charters and Beyond” the convention will focus on the challenges and opportunities of digitising medieval charters, particularly in relation to developing solutions for machine-readable and machine-understandable access. Contributions will not, however, be limited to this specific field; the programme will also cover a broader spectrum of digitisation practices, including the use of technologies, digital workflows and the many applications of digital tools for studying, preserving and making archival heritage accessible.
All of this will unfold in the evocative setting of La Serenissima, Venice – historic crossroads of cultures offering the perfect backdrop for reflecting on the dialogue between centuries-old records and contemporary digital pathways. Venice itself evokes the image of a bridge – between East and West, North and South, past and present – and, in the spirit of ICARUS conventions, between archivists, researchers, students, citizen scientists, and other experts in the field.
Content and Call for Papers
The conference intends to focus on the dialogue between technology and archival documentation, including experiences, best practices, and new research proposals. Possible topics may include, but are not limited to:
- Creation and implementation of databases for archival sources;
- How digital technologies and digital approaches can support the study, research and conservation of archival materials;
- Experiences and case studies in digitisation workflows;
- Applications of artificial intelligence and blockchain to the study, description and management of archival collections;
- Technologies serving the teaching and learning of paleography and diplomatics.
The distinct call for papers can be found here.
Programme and Agenda
This Convention will encompass the annual ICARUS General Assembly (for members only), scheduled for 12 November 2025, alongside an open special session focusing on the project “DiDip- From Digital to Distant Diplomatics” presenting new case studies and updates concerning Monasterium Next Generation.
And, of course, don’t miss your chance to take part in our traditional football match!
Participation
As part of ICARUS’ mission, we encourage and foster the exchange of knowledge and expertise in the archival and cultural heritage fields across borders. In certain cases, we may be able to offer financial support to our members to help cover travel expenses if they are registered speakers and their home institutions cannot cover the full costs.
If you are going to apply for a Mobility Grant, please submit your application by 30 September 15 October at the latest. However, please be aware that we cannot guarantee that your request will be granted.
Additional information on accommodation options to help you plan your stay in Venice will follow in due time.