Dear participants of the 47th ESPEN Congress,
Welcome to the enchanting city of Prague, the heart of Europe where history whispers through the cobblestone streets and ancient spires stand as guardians of a storied past. As you gather here for the 2025 ESPEN Congress at the Prague Congress Center, amidst the architectural splendor and cultural richness of the city, you are not just participants but also partakers in an experience that transcends borders and time.
Nestled along the banks of the Vltava River, Prague is a city that wears its history proudly, showcasing a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture that tells tales of centuries gone by. The very streets you walk upon are pathways to the past, each building and monument a testament to the creativity of the human spirit.
Directly from the Congress Center you see the skyline of the iconic Prague Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in the world, with its centuries-old walls and treasures such as St. Vitus Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, a testament to the dedication and vision of those who came before us.
Walk through the winding narrow streets of the Old Town, where the Astronomical Clock stands as a marvel of medieval engineering, with its intricate dance of figures and symbols. Pause at the Charles Bridge, where statues of saints gaze out over the flowing waters below, another timeless link between the past and the present.
As you explore the city, you will encounter not just monuments and landmarks, but also stories of innovation and discovery that resonate with the theme of the congress. The Charles University in Prague was founded by King Charles IV in 1348 as the sixth oldest European university. Consider the legacy of Jan Evangelista Purkynje, a pioneering anatomist and physiologist who made significant contributions to the field of medicine. His spirit of curiosity and relentless pursuit of knowledge embody the essence of scientific inquiry that we celebrate and nurture in our own work. In the realm of medical history, Prague has a lot to tell. From the groundbreaking work of Ignaz Semmelweis in the field of obstetrics to the innovative research of Carl Cori and Gerty Cori in biochemistry, this city has been a cradle of medical innovation and progress. As you gather here to share your knowledge and research, you are following the footsteps of these trailblazers, continuing the legacy of excellence and discovery that defines the medical profession.
Beyond its historical landmarks, Prague is a city of vibrant culture and artistic expression. Immerse yourself in the music of Antonin Dvorak, Bedrich Smetana and Bohuslav Martinu, visit the National Gallery or make a choice from many other museums and exhibitions, follow the footsteps of Franz Kafka.
As you engage in presentations, discussions and debates at the congress, take a moment to appreciate the unique atmosphere of Prague, where the past mingles with the present in a harmonious dance of continuity and change.
In the embrace of Prague’s timeless beauty and historical grandeur, let us come together united in our quest for knowledge and commitments to advancing the frontiers of the field of clinical nutrition and metabolism which connects all medical disciplines. May this congress be a gathering of minds, as we work together to shape a healthier and more prosperous future for all.
Welcome to Prague, where history is not just a sight to behold, but a living presence that inspires us to explore new horizons, guided by the wisdom of the past and the promise of the future.
Pavel Tesinsky
47th ESPEN Congress President
