The Ruggerian Days

The Days of Roger II, an annual conference promoted by the Ruggero II Study Center of Cefalù in collaboration with the Culture Department of the Municipality of Cefalù and prestigious Italian universities, will be part of the programming for Millenium 2027 – European Year of the Normans. The initiative represents an important moment of in-depth study and dissemination dedicated to the history of Norman Sicily and the political and cultural project promoted by the Altavilla family. Through the contributions of scholars, researchers, and specialists from Italian and French universities, the conference aims to enhance scientific research on the Norman Altavilla dynasty and the historical, institutional, and cultural legacy it has left in the Mediterranean and contemporary Europe. The 2027 edition will be dedicated to a topic of particular interest for understanding the territorial organization of the Norman Kingdom: the management of forest resources and the system of main road axes in Norman Sicily. This theme, still under definition and deepening, will allow for the analysis of the relationship between land governance, mobility, economy, and control of natural resources, highlighting the exceptional organizational capacity developed by the Altavilla family in the construction of the Kingdom. Among the already identified speakers are Prof. Francesco Paolo Tocco from the University of Messina, Prof. Pietro Colletta from the University of Palermo, and numerous scholars and specialists of the Norman period from Italian and French universities and research centers, showcasing the international dimension of the initiative. Particular attention will be given to involving younger generations. The conference will indeed be open to the participation of university students and high school students from the territory, fostering opportunities for direct interaction with the world of research and contributing to the dissemination of knowledge about the Norman historical heritage. A distinctive element of the project is also the collaboration with the Cefalù Hotel Institute, which will participate in organizing reception and catering activities. This involvement will allow students to confront an international event, acquiring professional skills and actively contributing to the enhancement of the local cultural heritage. Thus, the Days of Roger II confirm themselves as one of the main study events dedicated to Norman civilization, capable of combining scientific rigor, cultural dissemination, training, and community participation, fully in line with the objectives of Millenium 2027. Practical information: Public warned, Free. Partnership: University of Palermo, University of Messina, University of Catania, University of Enna, University of Basilicata, University of Naples Federico II, Aldo Moro University of Bari, University of Caen-Normandy.