Call for Papers: Exploring Religious Beliefs and the Supernatural in Italy, and examining their role in Italian migrations
The John D. Calandra Italian American Institute at Queens College, a part of The City University of New York, has issued a call for papers for its 2026 conference, scheduled to be held from April 24-25. The theme of the conference, "Religions, Beliefs, and the Supernatural in Italy and across Italian Mobilities," seeks to delve into the intricacies of religious practices, tensions, and conflicts shaping modern Italy, with a focus on the role of Catholicism, as well as other religious communities such as Jews, Waldensians, Muslims, and Buddhists.
The conference encourages an inclusive approach to Italy and its diaspora, encompassing inhabitants of the nation-state, members of the diaspora, current immigrants in Italy and their descendants, and former colonial subjects.
The deadline for submission of papers is September 15, 2025. Successful candidates will be notified in November 2025. All submissions should adhere to the instructions provided on the official conference page of the Calandra Institute, which is the only acceptable submission venue.
While the exact format and length for abstract submissions have not been specified in the main announcement, past papers have typically been scholarly abstracts not exceeding 500 words. It is advisable to check the official conference page for the most recent submission requirements, as these may vary year to year.
For further details and the latest updates, please visit the official Calandra Institute conference page or contact the organizers directly.
Exploring the rich tapestry of Italian folklore and cultural traditions could be an engaging topic for a paper in the 2026 Calandra Institute conference, offering insight into the country's lifestyle, travel, and cultural-travel experiences. For instance, one might delve into the supernatural beliefs interwoven in Italy's history and the impact they have on contemporary cultural practices, travel destinations, or lifestyle choices. To ensure proper submission of the paper, authors should carefully review the guidelines provided on the official conference page of the Calandra Institute.
