Geomorphosites 2026 – Heritage Geomorphology

Research on geomorphological heritage began to take shape in the late 1990s, building on earlier international initiatives on geoheritage launched in 1991 in Digne-les-Bains, France. Under the leadership of Professor Mario Panizza, a pioneer in geomorphosite studies, a Working Group on Geomorphological Sites was created in 2001 within the International Association of Geomorphologists (IAG).

Since then, conferences, workshops, training courses, scientific publications, and dedicated sessions at major international meetings have helped establish geomorphological heritage as a recognized and dynamic field of research. Today, it stands at the crossroads of Earth sciences, culture, and heritage management.

In 2026, the University of Lausanne will host the international conference Geomorphosites 2026 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the IAG Working Group on Geomorphosites and to pay tribute to Professor Mario Panizza, who passed away in 2025.

Under the theme “Heritage Geomorphology”, the conference promotes an integrated approach to geomorphological heritage: assessing the scientific value of landforms, recognizing their aesthetic, historical, and cultural dimensions, and strengthening collaboration in their management and protection.

This international event will bring together researchers and heritage specialists to share knowledge, foster dialogue, and advance the understanding and preservation of geomorphological landscapes as a vital part of our shared heritage.

The event is divided in three parts:

1. An Intensive Course on Geomorphosites for young geomorphologists on 7th and 8th September 2026.

2. The Conference “Heritage Geomorphology” in Sion UNIL Campus on 9th and 10th September 2026.

Keynote speakers

Prof. José Brilha, University of Minho, Portugal

Prof. Paola Coratza, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy

Prof. Piotr Migoń, University of Wroclaw, Poland

Ass. Prof. Claire Portal, University of Poitiers, France

The final program of sessions will be published soon.

3. Excursions on 11th and 12 September 2026 : Verbier Mont-Fort (Interpretation products and Geotourism), Lavaux Terraced Vineyard

(UNESCO World Heritage site), Derborence (historical rockfalls in the 18th century) or Aletsch Glacier (UNESCO World

Heritage site)

Organizing committee :

Rihab Abdelkebir, University of Lausanne

Lisa Angiolini, University of Lausanne

Jonathan Bussard, University of Lausanne

Mélanie Clivaz, University of Lausanne

Emmanuel Reynard, University of Lausanne