Dear colleagues,

On behalf of the Italian Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, I am pleased to invite you to the 44th Annual Meeting of ESPGHAN being held 25-28 May, 2011 in Sorrento, Italy.

The scientific program will focus on the most recent genetic, immunological, microbiological and clinical developments in the field of GI disorders, liver diseases and nutrition. The meeting will bring together scientists from all over the world to share their work and expertise in their fields of interest in a friendly atmosphere.

Sorrento is located on the southern side of the Gulf of Naples, in a splendid panoramic position, close to Positano and Amalfi in front of the marvellous island of Capri. The origins of this fascinating land date back to the VII Century BC when the Teleboi came from Greece to colonise Capri and then Sorrento. Over the centuries Sorrento was subjected to the domination of many different cultures: first the Samnites, then the Romans and the Byzantines. It was a favourite seaside resort of the Roman nobility, who built grandiose villas here, the remains of which can still be seen. Sorrento underwent the reforming policy of Charles III and in the XVIII-XIX Century it became a favourite place of travellers, poets, literary men and artists from all over the world. The scent of orange and citrus groves have enraptured the souls of Goethe, Stendhal, Byron, Shelley, Dickens, Ibsen, Tolstoy and many other famous writers and artists.

History has left deep marks on all shores, promontories and mountains of this sunny land where the architecture, pleasantly blends into wonderful landscapes, revealing an extraordinary interaction of “human skill” and “nature”. The conference venue “Hilton Sorrento Palace Hotel” is located in the heart of the city’s business and cultural centre, and walking distance from most of the conference hotels.

We are looking forward to welcoming you to Sorrento in 2011, where natural beauty, historical artistic wealth and famous gastronomic heritage await you.

Riccardo Troncone

President ESPGHAN