This time we travelled south to reach the enchanting city of Palermo, where the International Cannizzaro Conference 2026 was held, dedicated to the bicentenary of the birth of the distinguished Italian chemist and patriot Stanislao Cannizzaro.
Stanislao Cannizzaro (1826–1910) is a figure closely connected with the history of chemistry in Pisa: it was precisely in Pisa that he received his first true training in the chemical sciences, assuming the role of ‘preparator’ to Raffaele Piria (1814-1865), who at that time was the most authoritative voice in Italy in this field. The Pisan years, from 1945 to 1947, proved fundamental for Stanislao’s life and for the bonds he would form with other young scholars present at that time: Cesare Bertagnini, Paolo Tassinari, and Sebastiano de Luca. The friendships established during one’s studies are indeed confirmed as a fundamental component in the life of every scientist.
From the Cannizzaro Collection, preserved at the University Library of Pisa, we were able to examine numerous letters from Cannizzaro’s correspondence. In particular, that with Bertagnini is remarkably extensive. The two enjoyed a close familiarity, with Bertagnini addressing him as “Caro Lao” or “Carissimo amico”. They exchanged views on research concerning aromatic molecules and the production of hydrides, but also information about their lives, their travels and aspirations, as well as the informal “corridor talk” of the Chemical Laboratory of the University of Pisa.
In preparing our contribution for Palermo, another archival source proved fundamental, retrieved from the General Archive of the University of Pisa with the assistance of Dr Daniele Ronco. This is the Inventory of the Chemical Laboratory compiled by Giuseppe Branchi in 1838, which provides a detailed picture, from the arrangement of rooms, tables, and chairs to the contents of drawers (including coins left scattered about). This document is of considerable importance in helping us to understand the condition of the laboratory upon the arrival of Raffaele Piria in 1841, and consequently the kinds of chemical activities that could have been conducted there.
The conference also provided an opportunity for meeting and exchange with Italian and international researchers working in the history of science, the history and philosophy of chemistry, and chemical education. Particular thanks are due to the organisers of this most pleasant conference, who made these days both fruitful for stimulating discussions and valuable for future collaborations!
