Astronomers for a Night

Riserva Naturale "I Giganti della Sila" · Spezzano della Sila, Costa Viola, Calabria

9 August 2026

Concluded event

In the silence of the evening, when the Sila Giants Forest is enveloped in darkness and the sky above the plateau is lit by the stars, “Astronomers for a Night” comes to life – one of the most evocative events of the FAI Summer Evenings. The experience offers a night-time walk in the Sila Giants Nature Reserve, accompanied by an astronomical observation session led by amateur astronomer Francesco Veltri. A fascinating journey through stars, constellations and tales linked to the myths of the sky, designed to introduce adults and children to astronomy in a simple, engaging and accessible way.

A Night Under the Stars in the Sila

In the silence of the evening, when the Sila Giants forest sinks into darkness and the sky above the plateau opens to starlight, "Astronomers for a Night" comes to life, one of the most evocative events of the FAI Summer Evenings. The experience offers a night-time walk in the Sila Giants Nature Reserve, in Spezzano della Sila, accompanied by a guided astronomical observation led by amateur astronomer Francesco Veltri. It is a journey through stars, constellations and tales linked to the myths of the sky, designed to introduce adults and children to astronomy in a simple, engaging and accessible way.

The Sila Giants Reserve, Away From the Lights

Far from the city lights, the Sila landscape becomes the ideal setting for observing the night sky with the naked eye and identifying the main summer constellations. The Sila Giants Nature Reserve, in the heart of the plateau in the province of Cosenza, protects towering monumental larch pines, some centuries old. The nocturnal setting, the silhouettes of the giant trees and the intimate atmosphere of the Reserve make the experience particularly intense and perfect for those wishing to discover a different side of the Calabrian mountains: its darkest, most starry night sky.

Dates and How to Take Part

The initiative is scheduled for the evenings of 9, 16 and 22 August 2026. As it is a night-time walk with stargazing, comfortable clothing suited to the cool mountain evenings is recommended, typical of the Sila plateau even in high summer. Promoted as part of the FAI Summer Evenings, the activity combines a forest walk with an astronomy session for all ages. Visitors planning a holiday among the region's villages and parks can pair it with other events in Calabria.

Date and duration

The event is scheduled for 9 August 2026. Check for any changes announced by the organisers shortly before travelling.

Venue

The listed venue is Riserva Naturale "I Giganti della Sila", Spezzano della Sila (CS). Follow current information from the organiser and municipality for access, parking and local transport.

Organisers and participants

Published event information names , Francesco Veltri. Check official channels for the final programme and any changes to participants.

Admission and updates

Admission details are not specified in the available data. Check the official source close to the event date for confirmation of times, access and availability.

Frequently asked questions

When does Astronomers for a Night take place in 2026?

The initiative is scheduled for the evenings of 9, 16 and 22 August 2026.

Where is the event held?

In the Sila Giants Nature Reserve, in Spezzano della Sila, in the province of Cosenza.

What does the experience involve?

A night-time walk through the Reserve's forest combined with a session of astronomical observation of the summer sky.

Who leads the stargazing?

The observation is led by amateur astronomer Francesco Veltri, who guides the audience through stars, constellations and sky myths.

Which programme is it part of?

It is part of the FAI Summer Evenings, the FAI's programme of evenings dedicated to nature and culture.

Related events and news

All Costa Viola events