4–6 March

From Wednesday to Friday next week, ECR Group MEPs will gather in Viterbo and Assisi for a conference and programme of cultural visits devoted to reflecting on the spiritual and civilisational foundations of Europe and their enduring relevance for contemporary conservatism.

At a time when Europe is confronted with demographic decline, cultural uncertainty and growing ideological polarisation, the ECR Group will come together to reaffirm the importance of safeguarding the fundamental values that have shaped European thought and identity.

On Thursday 5 March 2026, the European Conservatives and Reformists Group will hold a conference in Viterbo, at the Hotel Niccolò V, entitled “Between stone and spirit: values, roots and traditions in the revival of Europe’s competitiveness and cohesion”.

The initiative aims to explore the link between European identity, cultural and spiritual roots, economic competitiveness and territorial cohesion. In a context marked by economic, social and geopolitical challenges, Europe’s heritage of values – intertwined with Christian and humanistic tradition – is proposed as a strategic lever for strengthening trust, human capital, quality of work and balanced territorial development.

The proceedings will be opened by:

Antonella Sberna, Vice-President of the European Parliament; Carlo Fidanza, Head of the Fratelli d’Italia delegation to the European Parliament; Marco Squarta, MEP; Nicola Procaccini, MEP and Co-Chair of the ECR Group; and Mauro Rotelli, Chair of the Environment Committee of the Chamber of Deputies.

The day’s proceedings will feature speeches by prominent speakers, including H.E. Mariano Crociata, President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Community (COMECE) and Bishop of Latina; Renato Brunetta, President of the CNEL; Eugenia Roccella, Minister for Equal Opportunities and the Family; Tiziana Laureti, Rector of the University of Tuscia; The following speakers will explore the topics under discussion in greater depth:

Chiara Gemma, MEP and coordinator for the ECR Group of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs; Francesco Torselli, MEP; Beata Szydło, MEP and coordinator for the ECR Group of the Committee on the European Shield for Democracy.

The discussion on work, competitiveness, cohesion, demography and territorial development will be moderated by Roberts Zīle, Vice-President of the European Parliament. The conclusions will be presented by Patryk Jaki, MEP and Co-Chair of the ECR Group.

The conference aims to be a moment of political and cultural debate to reaffirm how values, roots and territorial cohesion represent a fundamental pillar for the revival of European competitiveness and shared prosperity.

Members will also visit the Papal Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis, offering a moment of spiritual reflection inspired by the legacy of Saint Francis of Assisi. In Viterbo, Members will receive an address by the Bishop of Viterbo focusing on the city’s historical and spiritual role, its rich ecclesiastical heritage, and its contribution to Europe’s cultural identity. Together, these moments of debate and reflection will reaffirm the ECR Group’s commitment to defending Europe’s cultural heritage as the surest foundation for its future.

When: Wednesday–Friday

Conference: Thursday @ 8:45–10:45

Where: Hotel Niccolò V, Viterbo