IFYC25 – Presentations and plans for future collaborations

The final day of IFYC25 successfully combined historical exploration of Almagro, collaborative reflection, and cultural celebration. It marked a fitting end to a transformative week, reinforcing the conference’s core values of learning, connection, and shared responsibility for the future. The final day of the conference began early in the morning with a bus journey from Read More …

IFYC25 – Environmental aspects of mercury and historical mining practices

The afternoon session provided a rich combination of scientific insight and historical context. The presentation and mine tour offered a deeper understanding of mercury’s environmental impact and the legacy of mining in Almadén. The experience was both educational and memorable, contributing significantly to the overall objectives of the conference. The afternoon program began with a Read More …

IFYC25 – Science and on-site research

The morning of the second day of the IFYC25 offered a rich blend of scientific inquiry and cultural engagement. Through expert-led sessions, interactive workshops, and student presentations, participants deepened their understanding of mercury’s environmental and health implications while also experiencing elements of Spanish heritage. The morning was both educational and dynamic, reinforcing the conference’s interdisciplinary Read More …

IFYC25 – Summary of the lecture on the mercury mine of Almadén

The lecture of Luis Mansilla Plaza (University of Castilla-La Mancha) held at the IFYC25 at the IES Pablo Ruiz Picasso in Almadén explored the historical, geological, and cultural significance of mercury mining in Almadén, Spain—home to the world’s largest and oldest mercury deposit. Formed over 400 million years ago, the site has played a central Read More …

IFYC25 – Introduction and first input phases

The first day of the IFYC25 was marked by a balanced combination of academic input, cultural exchange, and interactive activities. Participants gained valuable historical knowledge, strengthened intercultural relationships, and enjoyed a dynamic start to the conference. The first official day of the conference commenced at IES Picasso with introductory presentations by the participating delegations from Read More …

Jakob Fugger’s connections to Almadén (February 28, 1524)

The headteacher of the Jakob Fugger Gymnasium in Augsburg, Mrs. Angelika Felber, handed over an archive work of Sarah Schmid B.A. and Dr. Stefan Birkle from the Fürstlich und Gräflich Fuggersches Familien- und Stiftungsarchiv in Dillingen to the mayor of Almadén Ms. Dª. Raquel Mª Jurado Merchán. The first and second pages of the five-page Fugger Read More …

IFYC25 – Family Day

The Sunday Family Day experience was particularly enriching, offering meaningful engagement with the host family and a deeper understanding of Spanish culture. The warm hospitality and cultural immersion contributed significantly to the overall success of the exchange. Sunday was designated as a family day for the guest students. The day began with a breakfast consisting Read More …

IFYC25 – Travelling to Almadén

Travel and Arrival – Friday, 4 October The delegation from Augsburg opted to travel by train, prioritizing sustainability and the symbolic retracing of historical trade routes—albeit via modern high-speed rail. The journey included a stopover in Paris, where participants visited the Louvre Museum and the Parc des Tuileries, with views of iconic landmarks such as Read More …