Conference
Torres Vedras is the venue for the 12th GGN International Conference
Exploring Earth's history, science, and heritage for sustainable, peaceful futures.
Conference Theme
Exploring Earth's history, science, and heritage for sustainable, peaceful futures
"Geoscience is essential to understand our planet's past and to build resilient, peaceful and sustainable societies — geoparks are where that knowledge meets communities."
International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS)
The 2027 edition invites the global geoparks community to connect deep time with present-day challenges: climate resilience, geoheritage conservation, education and the role of territories in building peaceful, cooperative futures.
Sessions will cover geoconservation, palaeontology, geotourism, education and outreach, indigenous and local knowledge, and geopark governance, with a special track on cooperation between UGGP territories and Portuguese-speaking countries.
Geosites
Scientific Partnerns
Municipalities
Business Partners
Agenda Overview
Five days, one shared programme
Day 1
20 sep
Day 2
21 sep
Day 3
22 sep
Day 4
23 sep
Day 5
24 sep
Day 1 ⋅ Monday
20 september 2027
Transfer to Conference Center
Acreditations
GGN ExB Meeting
Lunch
GGN ExB Meeting
EGN
APGN
GEOLAC
African Network
Welcome Session for Political Delegations and Geopark Partners
Icebraking
Day 2 ⋅ Tuesday
21 september 2027
Transfer to Conference Center
Opening Ceremony
Geofair Opening
Lunch
Key Speaker
Conferences & Workshops
Chil Out
Day 3 ⋅ Wednesday
22 september 2027
Transfer to Conference Center
Key Speaker
Conferences & Workshops
Lunch
Conferences & Workshops
Conferences & Workshops
GGN General Assembly
Chil Out
Day 4 ⋅ Thursday
23 september 2027
Transfer to Conference Center
Field Trips
Transfer to Conference Center
Gala Dinner
Day 5 ⋅ Friday
24 september 2027
Transfer to Conference Center
Key Speaker
Conferences & Workshops
Lunch
Conferences & Workshops
Chill Out
Closing Ceremony
See you next year
Venue
ExpoTorres, Torres Vedras
ExpoTorres offers a spacious, modern conference centre in Torres Vedras, prepared for large events, plenary sessions, parallel rooms and a full exhibition area.
The city of Torres Vedras is located in central-western Portugal, approximately 50 km north of Lisbon, easily accessible to visitors from various continents and serving as a strategic base to explore the Oeste region, the nearby Atlantic coast and its renowned landscapes.
Pavilion Expo de Torres Vedras | ExpoTorres
Av. Gen. Humberto Delgado, Torres Vedras
How to Reach
Getting to Torres Vedras
By Air
Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport is 50 km away – around 45 minutes by car, with direct shuttle and coach connections.
By Train
The CP Oeste Line connects central Lisbon (Rossio and Entrecampos) directly to Torres Vedras, with a journey of around 1h15–1h30.
Buy tickets ↗By Coach
Frequent Barraqueiro Oeste coaches connect Lisbon (Campo Grande) to Torres Vedras in about one hour.
Buy tickets ↗By Road
The A8 motorway links Lisbon and the Oeste region directly, with parking available at ExpoTorres.
Torres Vedras City
The conference will take place in the city of Torres Vedras – a city located in the Lisbon district of central Portugal. Torres Vedras boasts a rich history, vibrant traditions, and picturesque landscapes, making it a notable destination for visitors and a pleasant place to live.
Know more
The city played a significant role during the Napoleonic Wars, as part of the Lines of Torres Vedras, a defensive system designed to protect Lisbon. Historical landmarks such as the Castle of Torres Vedras, with its Moorish origins, and various churches, including the Church of São Pedro, highlight its storied past.
Torres Vedras is particularly famous for its Carnival, often described as one of Portugal’s most traditional and lively. Featuring satirical floats, colorful costumes, and a festive atmosphere, the event draws large crowds each year. Surrounded by rolling hills and fertile farmland, Torres Vedras is situated in the Lisbon wine region. The area is renowned for its high-quality wines, and visitors can explore local wineries and enjoy wine tastings. While the city itself is inland, it is close to several stunning beaches, such as Santa Cruz, a favorite spot for surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Torres Vedras strikes a balance between preserving its historical charm and embracing modernity. With excellent infrastructure, schools, and local amenities, it’s a thriving hub for residents and an appealing destination for tourists.
The Conference Center
70,000 m²
9,500 m²
2 Pavilions
The Conference Center, officially known as ExpoTorres, is ideally located in the heart of Torres Vedras, with convenient access to all major regional roadways.
Know more
Spanning a total area of 70,000 m², including 9,500 m² of covered space, ExpoTorres offers excellent accessibility for both visitors and exhibitors. Throughout the year, ExpoTorres and the city of Torres Vedras host a wide range of events, including: Trade fairs and themed exhibitions, such as the São Pedro Fair, during 11 days, with more than 250,000 visitors Cultural events, including performances, art exhibitions, and seasonal markets, such as Torres Vedras Festivals, during 11 days, with nearly 100,000 visitors Torres Vedras Carnival, a 6 days event, with more than 700,000 visitors There are also spaces to set up stands for trade fairs and local exhibitions.
The venue offers spacious, well-equipped areas designed to accommodate a wide variety of events.
Key features include:
- Large halls for exhibitions and trade fairs Auditoriums for conferences, presentations, and meetings;
- Support facilities such as dining areas, parking, and spaces for auxiliary activities;
- The modern and functional architecture ensures flexibility, making it suitable for events of all scales and formats;
- Free wifi access and parking spaces for public and private transport for more than 1,000 vehicles;
- An Ecumenical space dedicated to all participants who wish to have a place for their reflections and prayers;
- The Conference Center is a versatile venue, with two big pavilions available for this event.
It serves as one of the region’s key hubs for cultural, social, commercial, and business events, standing out for its modern design and adaptability.
The entire surrounding area will be occupied by Geofair, which is set to host more than 100 stands, as well as an area where local producers will offer gastronomic experiences.
Abstracts & Posters
ABSTRACTS
Share your research, experiences and innovative ideas with the UNESCO Global Geoparks community. Submit your abstract and contribute to shaping the future of sustainable territories.
THEMES
Explore the conference themes and discover the key topics shaping UNESCO Global Geoparks.
A.
Projects and Aspiring Geoparks
Sharing experiences, challenges and innovative approaches from aspiring and established UNESCO Global Geoparks, with a focus on project development, territorial integration, governance and the path towards UNESCO Global Geopark guidelines.
B.
Conservation, Science and Research in Geoparks
Exploring how UNESCO Global Geoparks protect geological and natural heritage while promoting scientific research, monitoring and knowledge sharing to better understand and conserve Earth’s heritage.
C.
Sustainable Development in Geoparks
Showcasing strategies that connect geoconservation, economic development, environmental sustainability and community well-being, demonstrating how UNESCO Global Geoparks contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
D.
Education, Communication and Outreach in Geoparks
Sharing innovative approaches to education, interpretation, communication and public engagement that make Earth heritage accessible, inspire learning and strengthen awareness of Geoparks and their values.
E.
Cultural Heritage, Traditions and Multiculturalism in Geoparks
Exploring the links between geological heritage, cultural identity, traditions and living heritage, while celebrating diversity and promoting intercultural dialogue and community participation.
F.
Climate Change and Geohazards in Geoparks
Addressing climate change, natural hazards and territorial resilience through research, risk awareness, adaptation strategies and community-based approaches that support safer and more sustainable territories.
G.
Institutional Networking in Geoparks
Highlighting cooperation among UNESCO Global Geoparks, public institutions, universities, international networks and other organisations to exchange knowledge, strengthen governance and develop joint initiatives.
H.
Local Partnerships and Products in Geoparks
Showcasing partnerships with local communities, businesses, producers and associations that transform UNESCO Global Geopark values into sustainable products, services and experiences while supporting local economies.
I.
Geoparks and Well-being
Exploring how UNESCO Global Geoparks contribute to physical, mental, social and community well-being through access to nature, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, education and stronger connections with place.
Join the 12th Global Geopark Network International Conference
The global geoparks community is gathering in Torres Vedras. Join this landmark event to exchange knowledge, bridge cultures, and advance the sustainable future of our Earth. Secure your participation today.