The captivating realms of utopian cities and sacred architecture unveil a fascinating narrative of human ingenuity and aspiration. Utopian cities are canvases where dreams of harmonious living are painted, while sacred architecture is the majestic brushstrokes that bring spiritual beliefs to life. These concepts aren't mere constructs; they're living expressions of our desire for spaces that transcend the ordinary, creating environments that resonate with the very essence of what it means to be human.

As we stroll through the corridors of history, we find that utopian cities and sacred architecture have been the architects of civilizations, shaping the very essence of cultural identity. Utopian ideals have left their mark on the urban landscape, influencing how societies are governed, how people interact, and how cities are planned. Meanwhile, sacred architecture has stood as a testament to human creativity, embodying the beliefs and values that have defined different eras. From the majestic temples of ancient times to the intricate cathedrals of the medieval era, these structures whisper stories of transcendence and human expression.

In the contemporary landscape, the fusion of utopian cities and sacred architecture plays a pivotal role in meeting our spiritual and environmental aspirations. Once confined to religious contexts, sacred spaces now serve as modern sanctuaries, while utopian cities have evolved into sustainable visions, seamlessly blending urban environments with nature. Envision a future where cities not only address present needs but also embody ecological harmony, safeguarding the planet for generations. This evolving paradigm expands the spiritual significance of sacred architecture, intertwining with a broader quest for meaning, while environmentally conscious utopian civilizations inspire societies to thrive in harmony with nature. It's a call to action—a blend of dreams and sustainability—where utopian cities and sacred architecture converge to resonate with our deepest human desires and the evolving needs of our world.

We are thrilled to announce the fourth edition of the Utopian and Sacred Architecture Studies conference, a collaborative forum for thought leaders, researchers, and professionals in the fields of utopian and sacred architecture. Following the success of its inaugural counterpart, this edition aims to deepen discussions, welcoming diverse perspectives to broaden the discourse.

Conference Scope:

The Utopian and Sacred Architecture Studies aims to unite professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts from architecture, cultural studies, history, and environmental sciences. It serves as a dynamic platform fostering collaboration, idea exchange, and addressing contemporary challenges at the crossroads of these diverse fields. Topics range from architectural design evolution to sustainable urban planning and the intersectionality of history, spirituality, and modern environmental considerations. Join us in this stimulating experience, where shared insights flourish, and new horizons in interdisciplinary domains are collectively envisioned.

Statement of Purpose:

The USAS conference serves as a platform for scholars, researchers, and practitioners to explore and advance the understanding of utopian visions and sacred architecture. Our purpose is to foster a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives converge, stimulating insightful discussions and innovative ideas. Through engaging presentations, interactive sessions, and interdisciplinary exchanges, we aim to enrich the discourse on the historical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of utopian and sacred spaces. By bringing together experts and enthusiasts, our conference seeks to contribute to the evolution of architectural narratives, shaping a more profound and sustainable future for the built environment.

• 1. Sacred Architecture: Understanding and Significance

  1.1 Symbolic Language in Architectural Design

  1.2 Innovative Approaches to Modern Sacred Architecture

  1.3 Cross-cultural perspectives on sacred spaces

  1.4 Contemporary Interpretations of Sacred Architecture

  1.5 Socio-Cultural Implications of Sacred Design

• 2. Preservation Strategies for Sacred Architectural Heritage

  2.1 Challenges in Safeguarding Ancient Sacred Structures

  2.2 Revitalizing Sacred Buildings through Adaptive Reuse

  2.3 Sustainable Practices in Preserving Sacred Architecture

  2.4 Innovative technologies for architectural conservation

  2.5 Community involvement in monument preservation

• 3. Ancient Cultures and Civilizations: Historical and Architectural Impacts

  3.1 Influence of Ancient Cultures on Residential Architecture

  3.2 Cultural Narratives in Modern Architectural Design

  3.3 Preservation and Modernization of Vernacular Architecture

  3.4 Cultural Symbolism and Identity in Modern Buildings

  3.5 Blending Traditional and Contemporary Building Practices

  3.6 Cross-Cultural Influences in Global Architecture

• 4. Solutions and Inspiration from Past Civilizations

  4.1 Application of Ancient Design Principles in Modern Architecture

  4.2 Urban Planning Inspired by Historical Models

  4.3 Sustainable Practices in Ancient Societies

  4.4 Technological advancements inspired by historical innovations

  4.5 Harmonizing Tradition and Modernity in Architectural Design

• 5. Sustainable Utopias: Harmonizing Idealism with Environmental Responsibility

  5.1 Utopian Approaches to Resource Conservation and Renewability

  5.2 Eco-centric Utopian Visions for Sustainable Futures

  5.3 Integration of Renewable Energy in Utopian City Planning

  5.4 vUtopian Cities as Living Ecosystems

  5.5 Holistic Design Principles in Utopian Regenerative Architecture

• 6. Utopian Environmental Sustainability and Ecological Balance

  6.1 Eco-friendly Architecture and Urban Design in Utopian Cities

  6.2 Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Preservation in Utopian Landscapes

  6.3 Waste Reduction and Recycling Initiatives in Utopian Societies

  6.4 Climate Resilience and Adaptation Measures in Utopian Planning

  6.5 Sustainable Agriculture and Food Production in Utopian Realms

All accepted papers of the Utopian and Sacred Architecture Studies (5^th USAS) after the peer-review process will be either published as chapters in the Book Series “Advances in Science, Technology, and Innovation” (ASTI) by Springer or in one of IEREK Press' International Journals.

The ASTI Book Series by Springer is by highly professional members of an International Editorial Board to ensure a high-quality publication material to be eventually published online and printable.

The ASTI Book Series is indexed Scopus and will be submitted for indexation in Web of Science (ISI) and  EI-Compendex databases. 

If you are not sure whether you or one of your co-authors will be able to attend the conference, you should bear in mind that there is a fee to be paid for Audiences (Co-authors, Learners, and Interests). The accepted paper will not be included in the conference proceedings without paying the fee (see Conference Fees for more details). A research paper fee allows only one author, whether main or co-author, to attend the conference and receive only one copy of the conference abstract book in both hard and soft copies. Extras can be requested for a fee shown below.

Publishing in ASTI by Springer (Scopus indexed)                  

After the conference, the submitted manuscripts of authors interested in publishing in the ASTI book series will undergo a rigorous peer review process resulting in a final decision made by the editors. Only accepted research will be published as a chapter in the Book Series entitled “Advances in Science, Technology and Innovation” (ASTI) by Springer. The ASTI Book Series is by managed highly professional members of an International Editorial Board to ensure high-quality material for online publication.

The ASTI Book Series is fully indexed in Scopus. Some titles have been successfully indexed or submitted for indexation in Web of Science (ISI).

About the ASTI series

Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation (ASTI) is a series of peer-reviewed books based on important emerging research that redefines the current disciplinary boundaries in science, technology and innovation (STI) in order to develop integrated concepts for sustainable development. It not only discusses the progress made towards securing more resources, allocating smarter solutions, and rebalancing the relationship between nature and people, but also provides in-depth insights from comprehensive research that addresses the 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) as set out by the UN for 2030.

The series draws on the best research papers from various IEREK and other international conferences to promote the creation and development of viable solutions for a sustainable future and a positive societal transformation with the help of integrated and innovative science-based approaches. Including interdisciplinary contributions, it presents innovative approaches and highlights how they can best support both economic and sustainable development, through better use of data, more effective institutions, and global, local and individual action, for the welfare of all societies.

The series particularly features conceptual and empirical contributions from various interrelated fields of science, technology and innovation, with an emphasis on digital transformation, that focus on providing practical solutions to ensure food, water and energy security to achieve the SDGs. It also presents new case studies offering concrete examples of how to resolve sustainable urbanization and environmental issues in different regions of the world.

The series is intended for professionals in research and teaching, consultancies and industry, and government and international organizations. Published in collaboration with IEREK, the Springer ASTI series will acquaint readers with essential new studies in STI for sustainable development.

About Springer:

Springer is a leading global scientific, technical and medical portfolio, providing researchers in academia, scientific institutions and corporate R&D departments with quality content through innovative information, products and services. Springer has one of the strongest STM and HSS eBook collections and archives, as well as a comprehensive range of hybrid and open access journals. Springer is part of Springer Nature, a global publisher that serves and supports the research community. Springer Nature aims to advance discovery by publishing robust and insightful science, supporting the development of new areas of research and making ideas and knowledge accessible around the world. As part of Springer Nature, Springer sits alongside other trusted brands like Nature Research, BioMed Central, and Palgrave Macmillan.

Click on the below image to learn more about the editors

Important Note:

IEREK has an unyielding policy regarding plagiarism. We believe that copying/taking the ideas and work of other Authors without permission and credit is fraudulent.The Reviewing committee and IEREK employees have the authority to reject a paper during its reviewing process, on the basis of the paper being subjected to either minor or major plagiarism.

Authors must refer to, and abide by, the following instructions in submitting their abstracts/ papers:

Step 1: Abstract Submission Process

- The author should prepare and submit an Abstract (250 300 words) through the website and before the abstract submission deadline.

- The abstract should clearly state the purpose, results, and conclusions of the work to be described in the final paper.

- The author should select the most relevant topic for the paper from the corresponding conference topics.

- The author can use/download an abstract writing template to submit the abstract file accordingly.

To download the Abstract Writing Template, Click Here

Step 2: Abstract Review

- Upon submission, an abstract will undergo a preliminary evaluation process by members of our scientific committee.

-A relevant topic of the conference should be proposed with clear writing, aims, and objectives of the study clearly presented and sound literature and methodology of the work.

- The author will receive a notification by email, within 2 weeks, of:

• Approval, after which they will be requested to prepare and submit their full/short paper submissions.
• Rejection, if the topic proposed does not fit the theme of the conference.

Step 3: Paper Submission & Preliminary Review

- The author should prepare and submit a Full/ Long paper (6000-8000 words) through the website and before the full paper submission deadline.

- The full paper should state the major issue(s) addressed, the potential significance of the work, the theoretical and methodological approach(es) pursued, major findings, conclusions, implications, and relevant scholarly references.

- A full/long paper will be included in the conference abstracts book as well as get published online by Springer or by IEREK PRESS Journals.

- The author should submit the Full/Long paper written on the writing template, through our online system before the paper submission deadline.

- The full paper should be written in English as it's the official language of the conference.

Step 4: Similarity Check/ Plagiarism Detection

All Chapters will be screened for similarity using iThenticate; a Turnitin Plagiarism detection software, used for academic publishers. Springer Similarity guidelines are as follows:

• Max. % from all sources: 10-15%
• Max. % from one source: 3-5%
• Higher than 30% (all sources): Reject completely
• Lower than 30% (all sources): Ask for revision to decrease the similarities  

To download Paper Writing Template, Click Here

Step 5: Payment Completion & Confirmation

Once Preliminary approval for presentation at the conference and/or consideration for publication is granted, authors will be expected to complete payment in reference to the Conference Fees.

Note: 
In this phase of revision, the research paper will be evaluated based on its originality, structure, and relativity to the conference theme. If the paper gets acceptance by one reviewer, a paper preliminary acceptance notification will be sent to the author accordingly.

- As soon as payment is confirmed and done successfully, corresponding official documents can be issued from our end such as:

• A signed/stamped preliminary acceptance letter
• Receipt of Payment
• Visa Invitation Letter

Step 6: Rigorous Peer Review Process

Only after payment is confirmed,

- and the full paper submission deadline is reached, a submitted full-length paper is assigned to an Editor from the Editorial Board, in alignment with IEREK’s revision SOP (double-blind process).

- Each paper/ chapter is evaluated by a minimum of two reviewers, after which a final decision by the responsible Editor is made. There is no maximum to the number of times a paper can be reviewed, depending on the quality of the submission.

- Once a decision is made by the Editors, IEREK Editors will communicate one of the following three final decisions:

• Accepted without comments
• Revise and Resubmit – Minor or Major revision
• Final Rejection

- If modifications are in order, authors will be sent the relevant instructions and a deadline will be set. Missed deadlines may result in complete exclusion from the final publication/ final rejection.

- A back and forth process, modifications will be sent back to the responsible Editor/ Series Editor and another round of evaluation conducted.

A. Physical Attendance

• The registration fee does not cover accommodation expenses. A list of accommodation options can only be suggested by our team if available. Contact [email protected] to inquire.
• The fee covers:
  • The conference Kit is inclusive of a printed abstracts book, a softcopy of the abstracts book on a USB/CD, Conference notebook, IEREK pen, Conference Flyers/ Printouts.
  • IEREK Participation/ Contribution Certificate
  • Preliminary Acceptance Letters
  • Consideration for publishing in the IEREK ASTI series by Springer or IEREK Press
  • Lunches and Coffee Breaks
• If multiple abstracts by the same first author are submitted to the conference, a 25% discount is applied to each additional submission.
• Each research paper should have one main author who should pay the full fee (Author fees) regardless of attendance. Co-authors, each, have their own fees to pay to attend the event. This applies to online attendance as well as physical attendance.
• A research paper fee allows only one author, whether main or co-author, to attend the conference and receive only one copy of the conference Abstract book in both hard and soft copies. Extras can be requested for an additional fee.
• Professionals are categorized as participants who are not affiliated with universities such as practitioners, policymakers, entrepreneurs etc.

B. Online Attendance

The first version of the International Conference on Utopian & Sacred Architecture Studies (USAS) was held from 11 -13 June 2019 in association with Universita degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli. The conference included many discussions that covered extremely important topics and presented theories and practices stimulated over the last five centuries in a wide range of scientific areas such as historiography, political science as well as literary and art studies. It was a very successful conference.

The Conference was held in one of the most spiritual cities –the city of Aversa –, one that contains a real-life model of sacred architecture and spiritual buildings.

The conference was held under the patronage of Prof. Claudio Gambardella (Chairman - Department of Architecture and Industrial Design, Univ. degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Prof. Ferdinando Trapani - National Coordinator of the agreement "IEREK" - Inter - University Network- Department of Architecture, Universita degli Studi di Palermo, Prof. Rosanna Cioffi - Pro- Rector to Culture - Universita degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Prof. Luigi Maffei Director of Dadi - Department of Architecture and Industrial Design.

Similarly, reputable figures took part such as Prof. Galal Abada, IEREK’s representative, Prof. Paolo Giordano Ph.D. Coordinator of the DADI - Department of Architecture and Industrial Design in the Universita degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Luca Molinari editorial director of Platform Magazine - Department of Architecture and Industrial Design.

The conference received 73 paper submissions that were discussed over 12 sessions.

First day: Opening Ceremony and Keynote Speeches:
The opening ceremony started with greetings and short-introductions by:

Prof. Mona Helmi - Chair of the Architecture Department, University of Business and Technology, Jeddah, KSA

Prof. Niccolo Casidu - Director of DAD - Department of Architecture and Design, Universita degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli"

Prof. Salvatore Frigerio - Head of Collegium Scriptorium Fontis Avellanae

Prof. Alfred Jacoby - Faculty of Architecture, Facility Management & Geo-information at Anhalt University

Imam Muhiddin Gabriele Bottiglioni - Council member of the COREIS religious guides

The opening ceremony witnessed highly important speeches addressing the controversy surrounding Utopia and its successors from its origin to the present and explored the impact on and by utopian, religious, and cultural ideals.

After the lunch break, the Authors began presenting their researches while the session chairperson and moderators listened, discussed, and evaluated.

Second Day: Continuation of the Parallel Sessions & Start of the Workshop

Over the second day, remaining researchers continued presenting their work, networking and debating topics and trends in the field. Sessions throughout the conference were moderated by reputable names from the University such as professors:

Paolo Girodano
Alessandra Cirafici
Adriana Galderisi
Luca Molinari
Ornella Zerlenga
Mara Capone
Antonella Violano
Carla Langella
Sergio Sibilio
Antonio Rosato
Patrizia Ranzo
Gioconda Cafiero
Olimpia Niglio
Luigi Guerriero
Elena Manzo
Chiara Ingrosso
Gianfranco De Matteis
Marina D’Aprile
Corrado di Domenico
Susana Alves
Anna Gianneti
Fabio Mangone
Fabiana Forte

Francesca Muzzillo

After concluding the final sessions of the second day, a closing ceremony was held to discuss final remarks presented by the session moderators and speakers which stimulated group discussions and open debates. Key to identifying the next steps and recommendations that would assist in a buildup on the existing research and outcomes of the conference, the closing session proved helpful and fruitful.

To conclude the day and provide our researchers and academics with an opportunity to socialize and establish new connections and collaborations, participants were invited to attend a Gala Dinner.

Third Day: Workshop & Site Visit

The day started early with a tour visit to Reggia di Caserta, the royal palace and the park. After a lunch break, another tour visit to Belvedere of San Leucio and Museo della Seta Del Real Belvedere took place. Finally, group photos of all conference participants were taken as shown and the conference days concluded.

 A.Physical Attendance

- For participants who need Entry Visas to the country where the conference will be held, IEREK will issue the corresponding invitation letter for accepted applicants to facilitate visa issuance.

- Please notice that we will endeavor to assist you in obtaining a visa but the responsibility is yours and the decision rests solely with the appropriate Embassy.

Invitation Letter Issuance Process

1- In case the participant is an author who has submitted a research paper to the conference, it must get accepted by the Scientific Committee

2- Required participation fees must be paid

3- The participant should send the following information to the conference's official email:

* A clear copy of passport

* Passport number

* Full name as written in your passport.

* Date of Issuing and Expiration

* Date of Birth

* Email address of the nearest Embassy/Consulate to you

* Mobile Number including country code

4- Conference coordinator will issue the needful invitation letter and send a copy to the participant's email, in addition to another one to the corresponding email address of the embassy/consulate

5- The participant should print out the invitation letter along with all other required documents by the embassy/consulate and apply for VISA

London is the capital of England and the United Kingdom. It’s considered as one of the world’s most important, sustainable, visited cities. London contains many Heritage and Cultural sites like The Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and London Eye. Here are some of the interesting things to do while visiting London.

• Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the world’s most leading tourist attractions and a world heritage site which attracts visitors from all over the world. It’s located on the north bank of the River Thames on the border with the central city of London.

• The British Museum

The British Museum is a unique museum that brings together the cultures of the world, continents, spanning and oceans under one roof, not like any other museum’s collections have the same breadth, beauty, depth, and significance. It has about eight million objects which allow us to discover many forms of expressions from the ancient world and explore the extraordinary diversity of human cultures from different communities and empires.

• St Paul's Cathedral

The Cathedral was constructed in the 11^th century and now It’s one of the most famous sights of London. It’s iconic building is the second-largest building in the United Kingdom after Liverpool Cathedral.

• The London Eye

Coca-Cola London Eye trip is a must-do and has been the visitor’s number one experience for over a decade since it was Built to mark London's millennium celebrations in 2000. Once you step into your capsule you will feel the exhilaration as you rise up over the River Thames. With rising 443 feet over the Thames, your trip will last for only 30 minutes, but you will enjoy seeing spectacular views from your individual glass capsule like Big Ben and the houses of Parliament.

1-DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel London Excel

Address: 2 Festoon Way, London E16 1RH, United Kingdom

1.6 miles from University of East London/ 4 min. by car.

Phone number: +44 20 7540 4820

2-Premier Inn London Beckton hotel

Address: 1 Woolwich Manor Way, London E6 5NT, United Kingdom

0.9 mile from University of East London/ 4 min by car.

Phone number: +44 333 321 1244

3-Travelodge London Excel

Address: 1016 Dockside Rd, London E16 2FQ, United Kingdom

1.3 miles from University of East London/ 4 min. by car.

Phone number: +44 871 984 6298

4-Holiday Inn Express London - Excel, an IHG Hotel

Address: 1018 Dockside Rd, London E16 2FQ, United Kingdom

1.3 miles from University of East London/ 3 min. by car.

Phone number:  +44 20 3096 5888