News

Kassandra and Alessia Scarso’s Ad Sidera: Once Upon a Sky selected for CineGlobe 2026 at CERN

We are proud to announce that AD SIDERA: Once Upon a Sky, the immersive VR project created in partnership between Kassandra and acclaimed director Alessia Scarso, has been selected for CineGlobe 2026, the international festival hosted at CERN that celebrates the intersection of science, arts, and emerging technologies.

AD SIDERA invites audiences on a 360° journey through humanity’s enduring relationship with the sky, weaving together mythology, history, science, and future visions of our planet. The experience explores how our understanding of the cosmos has evolved across centuries while prompting reflection on one of the most pressing questions of our time: What will become of Earth in 2300?

The selection by CineGlobe represents an important recognition of the project’s ambition to bridge scientific knowledge and creative storytelling. By combining immersive technologies with narratives inspired by climate futures and human curiosity, AD SIDERA seeks to engage audiences in new ways of imagining our collective future.

We are honored to be part of a festival that brings together researchers, artists, filmmakers, and innovators from around the world, fostering dialogue between disciplines and expanding the boundaries of science communication.

Kassandra to speak at URWAN final event on Democratic Water Landscapes in Brussels

ANCI Lazio is pleased to coordinate the URWAN Final Event in Brussels, hosted at the Lazio Region Office, bringing together European institutions, cities, and project partners to discuss the future of water-sensitive and inclusive urban development.

Under the title “Democratic Water Landscapes: Co-creating Inclusive Green Spaces with Water at the Core”, the event will present the key results of the URWAN project and explore how Nature-based Solutions can support more resilient, participatory, and sustainable cities.

Kassandra will take part in the event as a speaker, contributing to the discussion on innovative approaches for urban resilience, inclusive green spaces, and the role of water-centred strategies in shaping more sustainable cities.

The event represents an important opportunity to share knowledge, strengthen collaboration among European partners, and reflect on how cities can better integrate water, nature, and community participation into future urban development.

UNESCO in the UK National Commission publishes report on The Kassandra Project’s Vindolanda pilot study

We are pleased to share the publication of the UNESCO in the UK National Commission report on The Kassandra Project – Vindolanda Pilot Study.

The pilot study explored how digital twins, environmental monitoring, and resilience assessment frameworks can support the long-term preservation and management of underground archaeology and heritage landscapes facing increasing climatic and environmental pressures.

Carried out at Vindolanda, one of the world’s most significant archaeological landscapes, the project provided an important opportunity to test and develop new approaches to predictive modelling, resilience assessment, and heritage management. The work demonstrates how innovative digital tools can help heritage organisations better understand future risks, support evidence-based decision-making, and strengthen the resilience of vulnerable archaeological sites.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Matt Rabagliati, Dr Andrew Birley, and everyone at The Vindolanda Trust for their collaboration, support, and vision throughout the project.

The report can be accessed here: https://unesco.org.uk/resources/the-kassandra-project-vindolanda-pilot-study?fbclid=IwY2xjawSOHOxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBvMThPdXlGUmQ5THdEdlNXc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHghycnecrVImJqIujLkhFkNhYS0ziq_ISL-0wz6neMEa1atPkPuevxSdd27x_aem_58y89bXYian5x8t3NsOXjw

Kassandra’s AI work at Vindolanda featured on Channel 4 News

Kassandra’s work at Vindolanda has received significant recognition, featured on Channel 4 News alongside UNESCO UK and The Vindolanda Trust. The coverage highlights the importance of using artificial intelligence to help protect and preserve 2,000-year-old heritage.

This recognition reflects the innovative and meaningful role that AI can play in safeguarding cultural heritage. By supporting the preservation of sites like Vindolanda, this work points to a future where technology helps protect our shared past for generations to come.

You can find the video here: https://www.channel4.com/news/how-ai-is-helping-save-2000-year-old-roman-relics-in-northern-england?fbclid=IwY2xjawRK3gdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe9jVNjVIskkqpy_kpvfcxgGyUMRQXQu7Z3mII1GzrgsFSSJjx_QWT79JD62g_aem_fyXDnftLecttkkIno_3Q7Q

AD SIDERA: A 360° VR journey through humanity’s eternal dialogue with the sky

A new immersive experience is set to transport audiences across time and space. AD SIDERA. Once Upon a Sky (VR 360 Edition), co-created with Kassandra, invites participants on an extraordinary journey through humanity’s enduring relationship with the cosmos.

For millennia, people have looked toward the heavens in search of meaning, guidance, and inspiration. Ancient myths, celestial observations, scientific discoveries, and visions of the future have all emerged from our fascination with the sky. AD SIDERA brings these elements together in a unique 360° virtual reality experience that blends history, mythology, and science into a compelling narrative.

Through immersive storytelling and cutting-edge VR technology, visitors will explore how different civilizations interpreted the stars, how scientific understanding transformed our view of the Universe, and how today’s choices may shape the future of our planet.

At the heart of the experience lies a thought-provoking question: What will become of Earth in 2300? By connecting our shared past with possible futures, AD SIDERA encourages audiences to reflect on humanity’s place in the cosmos and our responsibility toward the generations to come.

Driving urban resilience forward: Kassandra supports Ptuj, Sarajevo and Ferla within URWAN.

Kassandra recently presented its ongoing work to the URWAN partners, highlighting the tailored support provided to Ptuj, Sarajevo and Ferla in strengthening urban resilience.

From climate risk mapping to the evaluation of Nature-based Solutions (NbS), we are translating complex data into structured decision-support pathways adapted to each city’s specific context. Our approach connects hazard assessment, impact analysis and economic evaluation, enabling local authorities to compare adaptation options and identify the most effective strategies.

Different geographies bring different vulnerabilities — from flood risk to heat stress — but the objective is shared: building measurable, financially sound and long-term urban resilience.

Kassandra contributes to the 3rd URWAN Living Lab in Malta

Kassandra joined the 3rd URWAN Living Lab in Malta alongside the partner cities of Sarajevo, Ptuj, and Ferla to advance urban resilience strategies.

The focus was on strengthening the integration of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) into local planning. Kassandra shared its decision-support methodology to help translate climate strategies into measurable, evidence-based action and supported the validation of key URWAN tools, including the Catalogue of concrete solutions and case studies.

A further step toward turning climate ambition into practical, resilient outcomes for cities.

From rebuilding to resilience: our article in the press on how cities must rethink planning in the age of climate change

It is no longer time to rebuild “as it was, where it was.”

Climate change has drastically reduced our margin for error and, given the growing impact it is already having—and will continue to have—on Sicily, it is now essential for mayors and public administrators to fundamentally rethink how territories are planned and redesigned. Tools like Kassandra make it possible to assess scenarios in advance and to measure, before building, the resilience of our cities to the impacts of climate change.

Delaying these decisions today means shifting higher costs and heavier consequences onto the entire community tomorrow.

We’re protecting our shared past from climate change — Kassandra on ITV News!

Watch here:

Kassandra’s work to protect cultural heritage from climate change has been featured on ITV News, highlighting an innovative partnership at the Roman site of Vindolanda.

In collaboration with the Vindolanda Trust, Kassandra is applying artificial intelligence, predictive analysis, and advanced digital tools to address growing climate risks threatening Roman artefacts and archaeological sites. By transforming complex environmental and climate data into actionable insights, the project supports smarter, evidence-based conservation decisions.

Developed in close cooperation with UNESCO UK, this work contributes to the protection of World Heritage Sites at a time when climate change is becoming an increasingly urgent and tangible challenge for cultural heritage worldwide.

The ITV News report showcases how technology, scientific research, and heritage expertise can come together to safeguard our shared past—ensuring that irreplaceable sites like Vindolanda can be preserved for future generations.

Shaping the future of urban regeneration: we will be there at URWAN’s Final Living Lab!

URWAN is approaching a key milestone with its 3rd and final Living Lab, taking place in Malta from 11 to 13 February 2026 at the Waterfront Hotel in Sliema.

Focused on the uptake and mainstreaming of Nature-based Solutions (NbS), the event will bring together partners, local authorities and experts to co-create practical tools for urban regeneration and sustainable water management across the Euro-Mediterranean area.

Kassandra Project will be there, contributing to interactive sessions, real case studies – including a Green Rooftop site visit – and collaborative discussions aimed at refining the URWAN Enabler Pack and ensuring long-term impact beyond the project’s lifetime.

AI pilot at Hadrian’s Wall: Kassandra joins UNESCO-led effort to protect hidden archaeology

We’re proud that the UK National Commission for UNESCO is highlighting Hadrian’s Wall — and that Kassandra is part of this pioneering effort with The Vindolanda Trust to protect hidden archaeology at the Vindolanda Roman Fort UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Together, we are piloting the use of AI, environmental sensor networks and climate-aware projections to create predictive subsoil risk maps and future scenarios, helping safeguard undiscovered archaeology before it is lost. Supported by data from The National Lottery Heritage Fund-backed Magna Project, this is among the first initiatives of its kind in a UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

The pilot builds on the £1.8m Climate Change & UNESCO Heritage (CCUH) project, co-led with the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and advances our mission to show how UNESCO sites can lead the way in climate resilience, data integration and heritage protection. Heritage is not only about the past — it is a foundation for a more resilient, sustainable future.

Kassandra selected as a Finalist for the Seoul Design Award 2025!

The Seoul Design Award recognizes projects that create more harmonious and sustainable relationships between people, society, the environment and nature, tackling urban environmental challenges with design-driven innovation.

Kassandra was highlighted in the Cities & Communities category (Spatial/System design) for its use of AI-based decision-making and advanced Digital Twin technology to support resilient and sustainable management of historic urban environments. By combining data-driven climate simulations with urban planning, we help cities, communities and insurers understand the long-term impacts of climate change and compare adaptation strategies to strengthen resilience.

A big thank you to the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Design Foundation, the international jury, and our partners and clients who are applying Kassandra in real cities. This recognition motivates us to keep scaling climate resilience and sustainable design for urban heritage and communities worldwide.

Kassandra and COP30

Today marks the opening of COP30 in Belém, Brazil. As the global community gathers in the Amazon-region city of Belém for this pivotal climate summit, one of the central pillars is Adaptation & Resilience. The conference aims to define measurable indicators and targets for the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) — the framework established under the 2015 Paris Agreement to enhance adaptive capacity, bolster resilience and reduce vulnerability to climate-impacts.

Fully aligned with COP30’s program in Brazil, Kassandra puts Adaptation & Resilience at the heart of action — turning the GGA from pledge to practice for cities and critical infrastructure facing heat, floods, drought and wind extremes. In particular, Kassandra supports urban resilience and UNESCO heritage sites, where adaptation is both environmental and cultural.

They are talking about us! Kassandra launches two international projects with UNESCO and English Heritage.

Climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is a pressing reality that is putting at risk places of inestimable value, particularly UNESCO sites around the world. From desertification to wildfires, from floods to erosion, their futures are becoming increasingly uncertain. In the face of this global challenge, the digital platform for climate resilience, Kassandra, is taking concrete action.

Find out more about how climate change is threatening world heritage: /https://www.radiortm.it/2025/09/08/patrimonio-unesco-e-cambiamento-climatico-nuove-azioni-tra-italia-e-regno-unito-con-kassandra/

Studying climate change impacts on Audley End House and Gardens: Kassandra joins English Heritage initiative

We are delighted to have been asked to apply Kassandra at Audley End House and Gardens for English Heritage

The study will focus on the impact of climate change on the building designed by Robert Adam and the gardens designed by Capability Brown in the 1760s as well as visitor’s experience in the light of future climate challenges.

A great opportunity to pursue climate change management and future proofing of historic sites.

Kassandra to lead UNESCO U.K. study on safeguarding Hadrian’s Wall from climate change

Climate change is threatening world heritage. UNESCO U.K. has appointed Kassandra to study its effects on Hadrian’s Wall, starting with the fort of Vindolanda, where drought is already putting at risk the unique archaeological remains for which the site is renowned.

Kassandra will analyse climate and environmental data to develop new strategies for protecting this extraordinary World Heritage Site for future generations.

Kassandra showcased at URWAN Living Lab in Portugal to aupport sustainable water and climate solutions

Today we presented Kassandra at the URWAN Living Lab in Cuba, Portugal – a three-day event exploring how Nature-based Solutions can address water and climate challenges in Mediterranean towns.

Kassandra is contributing as an Integrated Decision Support System, helping local actors plan and implement sustainable, data-informed solutions.

Proud to be part of this dynamic and collaborative process.

Kassandra shortlisted for 2025 European Heritage Awards: a proud recognition!

We’re honoured that Kassandra was shortlisted for the 2025 European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards in the Research category.

To be considered alongside so many inspiring projects across Europe is already a great recognition. We didn’t win, but this experience has been deeply encouraging and a reminder of the importance of bridging heritage and climate resilience.

Thank you to Europa Nostra, the European Commission, and all who have supported and believed in this work.

Facing the climate crisis: Kassandra’s role highlighted at World Heritage UK Event

Great to be in London this week for the World Heritage UK workshop—an inspiring gathering of professionals dedicated to the future of our most treasured places. It was encouraging to see Kassandra mentioned in discussions around digital tools for climate resilience!

Fittingly, it was also the hottest May Day on record—an apt reminder that the climate crisis is not a future problem, but a present reality. The challenges facing World Heritage Sites are complex, but the innovation and commitment in the room gave real cause for hope.

Grateful for the connections made and the thoughtful conversations shared. Let’s keep the momentum going.

Collaboration in action: URWAN and Cardimed unite at Urban Green Horizons

At yesterday’s Urban Green Horizons event, Mark Cannata delivered a compelling talk on Kassandra and the importance of Nature-Based Solutions in urban environments, together with partners from Svimed Centro Euromediterraneo per lo Sviluppo Sostenibile, Iridra and Ancilazio.

The event also saw a successful twinning and knowledge exchange between two innovative EU projects: URWAN and Cardimed — highlighting the power of collaboration in addressing sustainability challenges.

It’s inspiring to witness these projects coming together to shape greener, more resilient cities for the future!

City of Ptuj and Kassandra: collaborative steps toward climate resilience and heritage conservation

Kassandra has just completed, as part of the URWAN project, a productive site visit and community engagement session in Ptuj, Slovenia—one of the country’s most historic towns. As we continue to work towards sustainable development and climate change mitigation, visiting Ptuj provided invaluable insights into the unique challenges faced by a town deeply rooted in history and culture.

One of the key challenges we discussed was how to balance the urgent need for climate action and integration of Nature Based Solutions with the conservation of Ptuj’s architectural heritage. The town’s narrow streets, ancient buildings, and rich cultural landscapes make implementing modern, sustainable infrastructure a delicate process in which a data-based decision making process will be crucial. In this respect Kassandra will be an invaluable tool to allow local authorities can balance the immediate need for climate action with the careful stewardship of Ptuj’s cultural heritage, ensuring that both the town’s past and its future are protected.

Throughout our visit, we engaged in open dialogues with stakeholders, including local authorities, business owners, and residents.

By listening to these voices, we gained a deeper understanding of the town’s unique vulnerabilities and opportunities. The visit highlighted the importance of co-creating solutions with the community, ensuring that any steps we take forward are rooted in local needs and aspirations. Together, we aim to help build a sustainable future that honors Ptuj’s past.

Advancing urban resilience: URWAN Project site visit in Sarajevo

Just wrapped up an inspiring site visit in Sarajevo as part of the URWAN project! It was an incredible opportunity to engage directly with key local authorities, stakeholders, and community members who are integral to the project’s success.

We had very productive meetings where we discussed the implementation of Kassandra as an Integrated Decision Support System (IDSS) for part of Sarajevo, including the historic Old Town. This tool will be pivotal in integrating nature-based solutions into urban planning, ensuring that the city’s rich cultural heritage is preserved while also enhancing resilience to environmental challenges.

This visit reaffirmed the importance of strong, localized partnerships in making a meaningful impact. We are excited to see how these collaborations will shape the future of Sarajevo’s urban landscape. Looking forward to the next steps in this journey!

Over 1500kg of waste removed and a wew turtle nest found: Modica and Kassandra in action

Modica and Kassandra are still dedicated to their environmental efforts: we have collected over 1500 kg of waste and discovered a new turtle nest.

Read more: https://www.radiortm.it/2024/07/03/modica-continua-il-suo-impegno-per-lambiente-raccolti-oltre-1500kg-di-rifiuti-e-scoperto-un-nuovo-nido-di-tartarughe/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1Jhx6t6uA22i2udjW99xMlxtgokoizUPjwhmLKVQqG52Mzx6pmoqfKdoo_aem_udtnfS4LhtITIAyvhQk4uA

Foto: RTM

Join Kassandra and Plastic Free for a beach cleanup at Maganuco – June 30th

On Sunday, June 30th, starting at 4:30 PM, Kassandra will join friends from the Plastic Free association, in collaboration with the Municipality of Modica, for a beach cleanup event at Maganuco.

You are what you eat: the impact of ocean plastic on marine life and humans

You are what you eat.

An estimated 8 million to 10 million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean each year.

Plastic in the ocean breaks down into microplastics which can cause serious environmental concerns because they can be eaten by marine life and can cause harm to humans.

The decisions we make in dealing with waste affect us all.

Rethinking urban mobility: visualizing sustainable futures with Kassandra

“Building more roads to prevent congestion is like a fat man loosening his belt to prevent obesity” Lewis Mumford, 1955

Historic cities were not built for cars. Visualising future sustainable scenarios via Kassandra can help decision makers obtain buy-in from stakeholders and citizens for this often delicate issue, improving resilience and quality of life.

Kassandra’s role in safeguarding Mediterranean wetlands and biodiversity

Healthy wetlands play an essential role as a habitat for biodiversity that can help to adapt to climate change.

Mediterranean wetlands are critical habitats for migratory birds. However, they are threatened by human pressure, reducing their capacity to preserve biodiversity.

Kassandra can help in assessing the resilience of these areas and developing adaptation pathways for better decision making.

Coastal heritage preservation in a changing climate: a collaborative discussion

We are focusing on the critical issue of coastal heritage preservation in the face of climate change. Coastal areas are on the front lines of climate impacts, and heritage sites are no exception.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on how Kassandra and other experts are collaborating to equip decision-makers with the tools and knowledge needed to address these complex challenges. Let’s come together to explore effective communication strategies for advocating urgent action.

URWAN Project: second partnership meeting begins!

URWAN PARTNERSHIP MEETING JOURNEY

Here we are, the Second Meeting of URWAN Project has officially started!

Kassandra and the Cittadella dello Sport: building a sustainable future for Modica

In the heart of the urban landscape of Modica Sorda there is a site of enormous potential waiting to be unlocked. A space full of opportunities to redefine community, sport and sustainability.

Today we reveal the vision of an innovative project carried out using Kassandra, for the Cittadella dello Sport, a new campus destined to transform the fabric of the city of Modica and raise the quality of life of its inhabitants by laying the foundations for a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable urban environment.