5th International, Intercultural and Inter-religious Conference in Pitigliano

The link between Pitigliano and its Jewish culture is extremely old: the first community to find refuge in this tufa-carved town dates back to the end of the 15th century. This is when the synagogue was built (1598). Unfortunately, the original structure was partly destroyed during the Second World War but was later expertly restored and can be visited today.

The Jewish population has always been perfectly integrated in Pitigliano, so much so that the town is nicknamed "Little Jerusalem".

From November 9 to 11, the diocese of Pitigliano-Sovana-Orbetello successfully organized the 5th intercultural and interreligious conference, titled "The Doors of the Mediterranean: Polyphony of Stories—People, Institutions, and Landscapes in Dialogue." This enriching event unfolded against the backdrop of the historic Orsini Fortress in Pitigliano, the evocative Cathedral of San Pietro in Sovana, and the mesmerizing archaeological park.

The conference, with a dedicated focus on cultural and interreligious dialogue, gained special significance given the prevailing circumstances characterized by intense tensions and anguish resulting from the conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with its profound consequences.

A noteworthy aspect of the program, endorsed by the Presidency of the Italian Episcopal Conference and co-organized in collaboration with the national CEI and regional CET offices for interreligious dialogue, was the interreligious meeting and spirituality for peace held on the afternoon of November 9th. This unique gathering took place at significant locations, including the Synagogue, the Cathedral of Pitigliano—a symbolic Muslim place of prayer in the absence of a mosque—and the Orsini Palace. Here, religious leaders invoked the gift of peace, culminating in an insightful exchange of thoughts and a dialogue inspired by the Marseille Manifesto, a document also endorsed by Pope Francis.

Distinguished participants included Bishop Roncari, Elena Servi (President of "La Piccola Gerusalemme"), Marco Cassuto Morselli (National President of the Jewish-Christian Friendship), Imam Hamdan Al Zeqri (Ucoii head of interreligious dialogue), and Fr. Piotr Zelazko (Delegate of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem H.B. Card. Pizzaballa). Additionally, Paola Berardino (Prefect of Grosseto), Don Giuliano Savina (Director of the CEI National Office for Interreligious Dialogue), and Luisa Locorotondo (Regional Manager for Interreligious Dialogue) shared their insights.

This event served as a platform for fostering understanding, harmony, and cooperation among diverse communities, reinforcing the importance of dialogue in promoting peace and unity.