The geology of wonder on show in Trento
The geological marvel exhibition comes to Pordenone
The “Dolomites: step into a geological marvel” exhibition, promoted by the UNESCO Dolomites Foundation and inspired by the “Dolomites World Heritage Geotrail” geological portal, will be hosted from 22 November to 21 December 2025 at Palazzo Gregoris, headquarters of the Historical Association “Società Operaia di Mutuo Soccorso ed Istruzione di Pordenone”, to mark the centenary of the CAI (Italian Alpine Club) of Pordenone.
Download the programme (in Italian)
Walking through the geological heritage
The exhibition debuted last spring during the Trento Film Festival, and then moved to San Lorenzo Dorsino (TN), inside the premises of the Adamello Brenta Nature Park. The centenary of the CAI of Pordenone is now a perfect opportunity to reaffirm one of the goals of the Geological Heritage Network of the UNESCO Dolomites Foundation: the promotion not only of knowledge about the Dolomites’ geological values, but also of a slow and mindful exploration of the “fossil archipelago,” supported by the involvement of local communities. These objectives fit perfectly with the principles and proposals of the CAI and the aims of the Pordenone-based organisation’s centenary program, which is “to make the public aware of the importance of protecting the mountain ecosystem and to convey to future generations the importance of sustainability, love of nature and the promotion of a healthy and active lifestyle”.
The inauguration
The inauguration will take place on Saturday 22 November from 3:00 PM, with a special event dedicated to the geology of the Dolomites, promoted by the UNESCO Dolomites Foundation in collaboration with the CAI of Pordenone, the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, the Dolomiti Friulane Natural Park, the Order and Association of Geologists of Friuli Venezia Giulia, and PromoTurismoFVG. Before the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:00 PM, representatives from the participating institutions, geologists, and experts will take the floor to discuss the geology of the Dolomites, particularly those of Friuli Venezia Giulia, and to help attendees turn scientific knowledge into awareness and responsible mountain-use practices. Curated by Biosphaera scs, with scientific support from geologists Alfio Viganò, Riccardo Tomasoni, and Alberto Carton as part of the Geological Heritage Network, and illustrated through photographs by Matteo Visintainer and drawings by Davide Bonadonna, the exhibition invites visitors to explore the deeper significance of the UNESCO recognition, which goes well beyond – and yet is well rooted in – the sheer beauty of the valleys, cliffs, spires, towers, and pinnacles.
The conference is open to everyone. Accreditation has been requested for geologists affiliated with professional associations. Participation is free of charge. Registration closed on 18 November and seats are now sold out: however, unregistered guests will be admitted until the venue reaches maximum capacity.
Download the programme (in Italian)
This activity is part of the project “Capacity building. Strengthening the social and regional capital of the Dolomites World Heritage Site (WHS) for lasting and sustainable development of local communities”, established with the support of Fondo Comuni Confinanti.
