400th Anniversary Celebrations of Collegio San Carlo

Four Hundred Years of Knowledge in Modena

In 2026, the Fondazione Collegio San Carlo in Modena celebrates an extraordinary milestone: its four hundred years of history. Founded in 1626 by the Modenese count and priest Paolo Boschetti and dedicated to San Carlo Borromeo, the College began as an educational institution for young noble families and, over the centuries, transformed into a cultural center open to the city, eventually becoming one of the approximately fourteen recognized university colleges of merit in Italy.

The Theme: The Transmission of Knowledge

The entire celebratory program, spanning throughout 2026 (starting in September 2025), revolves around a central theme: the transmission of knowledge, understood as shared heritage, intergenerational responsibility, and the foundation of civil coexistence. The chosen slogan, "Knowledge that Unites: Generations and Stories," encapsulates the spirit of an anniversary that looks to the past to speak to the present. Initiatives include conferences, lecture series, study days, publications, concerts, and performances.

The Highlight: The International Conference in July

The heart of the celebrations is the international conference from July 3rd to 5th, 2026, which brings to Modena representatives and students from the colleges of the Conference of Italian University Colleges of Merit (CCUM) and delegations from the prestigious Spanish Colegios Mayores, among the most esteemed institutions in the Iberian educational and university system. Three days of discussion on the importance of education and the role of colleges in contemporary society.

A Year-Long, Widespread Program

The celebrations opened on September 11, 2025, with a concert by the Youth Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine at the Teatro San Carlo and the presentation of the restoration project for the Church of San Carlo. Among the 2026 events are lecture series on European culture and religious studies, workshops with high schools, exhibitions and art installations, as well as TedxModena on May 23rd dedicated to the theme "Embrace your Heritage." The event is part of the "Modena City of Festivals" program.

A History That Is the City's Heritage

Located in the heart of Modena's historic center, in Emilia-Romagna, the Fondazione Collegio San Carlo is today a reference point for the cultural life of the Municipality and the entire Province of Modena, with its study center, library, theater, and monumental church. The four hundredth-anniversary celebrations represent a precious opportunity to discover this heritage and participate in a high-level program.