Modern, efficient and perfectly integrated into their urban surroundings, Italian conference centres are the specialist hub of the country's increasingly sophisticated events industry. We highlight ten centres that have thrust Italy into the conference spotlight.

The Lingotto centre in Turin was formerly the Fiat factory, and today is Europe's most advanced experiment in 'intelligent building', with everything controlled by computer.
In Milanofiori, just outside Milan, is the Centro Congressi Milanofiori, with meeting rooms, exhibition space, bars, restaurants and a hotel nearby.

Riva del Garda's Palacongressi is situated on the shore of Lake Garda not far from Verona. The complex includes the centre itself and the Palameeting room, holding up to 4,000 people.
Genoa's old cotton warehouses were converted into a modern conference centre in 1992, and the building now includes the Piazza delle Feste, a large canvas and metal tensile structure emerging from the water. Palazzo della Cultura e dei Congressi in Bologna has a 1,400-seat hall, as well as numerous multi-functional meeting rooms.

Florence's new conference citadel boasts three centres which will shortly be united by a pedestrian area. The scheme will also include the construction of a 2,500-seat auditorium.
In Perugia is the modern Centro Congressi Quattrotorri, with modern and functional rooms. Nearby is the Golf Hotel Quattrotorri, as well as the castle of Oscano, an ideal venue for special events.

Rome's Palazzo dei Congressi is equipped with the most modern technology, and includes the Teatro Pensile, a large space able to host artistic events and live entertainment.
In Sorrento is the Sorrento Palace, a modern hotel and conference complex which boasts a big auditorium, several smaller meeting rooms and huge exhibition spaces.

Porto Cervo in Sardinia has the Cervo Conference Center, which is equipped with modular meeting rooms, an auditorium and a green area for open-air receptions.