Organized by

The Greek
Tunnelling
Society (GTS)

Hybrid

ITA-AITES
WTC 2023
Expanding
Underground
knowledge & passion
to make a positive
impact on the world

Bulletin #2

12-18 May
Megaron Athens
International
Conference Centre
(MAICC)

www.wtc2023.gr GREECE
 Table of Contents

WTC2023 – Short Description .............................................................................................................3

Organizing Committee ...........................................................................................................................4

Scientific Committee ...............................................................................................................................6

This is Athens ......................................................................................................................................... 10

Papers Submissions .............................................................................................................................. 12

Registrations............................................................................................................................................ 13

Accommodation .................................................................................................................................... 15

Arrival and transport to Athens ....................................................................................................... 17

Local transportation in Athens ........................................................................................................ 18

WTC 2023 Technical Visits ................................................................................................................. 19

WTC2023 Technical Exhibition | 360o Virtual Tour .................................................................... 24

…why not combine business with some leisure? ...................................................................... 25

Sponsorship Brochure (incl. QR Code) ........................................................................................... 30

Spread the Word (promotion) .......................................................................................................... 31

Contacts us .............................................................................................................................................. 32

2 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

WTC2023 – Short Description

W
TC2023, under the theme “EXPANDING UNDERGROUND”, will focus on the
Knowledge and Passion that our industry advocates to Make a Positive Impact
on the World. WTC 2023 in Athens, that will be carried out in hybrid mode, will
highlight on the multiple advantages and solutions that underground space can provide,
at the prospect of a whole new era of smart technology, where sophisticated “digital tools”
change investigation, design, construction and operation methods and strategies rapidly.

The congress covers all “hot” topics of the tunnelling and underground space industry, whereas
a high scientific level will be ensured as all papers, prior to publication, will be peer reviewed
by highly skilled professionals and academics coming from all parts around the world. The
total number of the members of the scientific committee exceeds one hundred fifty (150),
while all accepted papers for publication will be made available to an open access portal via
the platform of the highly esteemed international editor CRC Press / Balkema (Taylor & Francis
Group). Hence, the research / work / best practice / efforts of the authors participating in the
WTC2023 will be freely and permanently available so anyone, anywhere, can read and build
upon his / her / their work.

WTC2023 will also host a large exhibition with plenty of space, where traditionally all major
international firms involved in the tunnelling industry participate.

The program of the WTC2023 will start with the ITA training courses between 12 to 13 May
2023, whereas the main congress activities (i.e. scientific program and technical exhibition)
will take place between Monday (15/5) and Wednesday (17/5). During the whole congress
week, all regular annual ITA activities will be organized (i.e General Assemblies etc), along with
the various meetings of the working groups and of ITA’ s committees. Last but not least, thanks
to the construction activity that will take place in Athens by 2023, several technical visits will
be organized providing the delegates various alternatives to choose upon.

Bulletin #2 3
 Organizing
Committee

The ITA-AITES WTC2023 is managed by the Executive Organizing Committee

which includes all elected members of the Greek Tunnelling Society
and is further strengthened by experienced Academics and Industry
Professionals. The Executive Organizing Committee is joined by the ITA
Executive Director and communicates directly with the ITA Executive
Council via both the ITA Executive Director and the assigned “ex officio”
Greek representative in ITA Ex-Co.

Ioannis Fikiris Ioannis Bakogiannis Nikolaos Roussos

Chair of the Organizing Committee Organizing Committee co-Chair President of Greek Tunnelling Society

Prof. George Anagnostou Prof. Vassilis Marinos Prof. Andreas Benardos

Scientific Committee Chair Program Committee co-Chair Program Committee co-Chair

4 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

Evangelos Pergantis Dr. George Dounias Dimitrios Alifragis
Schedule – Budget – Cost Control Chair Sponsorships & Exhibits Committee Chair Technical Visits Committee co-Chair

Dr. Paraskevi Yiouta-Mitra Prof. Chrysothemis Dr. George Leoutsakos

Technical Visits, Web & Media Paraskevopoulou Logistics and Venue Supervision
Communication Committee Co-Chair ITA-CET Training courses Committee Chair Committee Chair
& Young Members group coordinator

Marilia Balasi Dr. George Proutzopoulos Konstantinos Kirytopoulos

Marketing / Information Committee Chair Web & Media Communication Registration, Hospitality & Delegates
Committee Chair Services Chair

Dr. Dimitrios Litsas George Doulkas em. Prof. Theodosios Tassios

Social Program Committee Chair Young Members group coordinator Scientific Counselor

Bulletin #2 5
 WTC2023 indents to ensure the highest possible
scientific level thanks to the contribution of highly

Scientific skilled professionals and academics who are coming

from all over the globe. The total number of the

Committee members of the scientific committee exceeds one

hundred fifty (150).

Prof. George Anagnostou Prof. Andreas Benardos Prof. Vassilis Marinos

WTC2023 Scientific Committee Chair WTC2023 Program Committee co-Chair WTC2023 Program Committee co-Chair

Han Admiraal Lars Babendererde

(The Netherlands) ◆ Enprodes (Germany) ◆ BabEng GmbH
Zach Agioutantis Tim Babendererde
(USA) ◆ University of Kentucky (Germany) ◆ BabEng GmbH
Shinichi Akutagawa Marilia Balasi
(Japan) ◆ Kobe University (Greece) ◆ Omikron Kappa Consulting S.A.
Dimitrios Alifragkis Cemal Balci
(Greece) ◆ Attiko Metro SA (Turkey) ◆ Istanbul Technical University -ITÜ
Giovanny Alvarado Karin Bäppler
(Australia) ◆ AECOM (Germany) ◆ Herrenknecht AG
Jasmin Amberg Monica Barbero
(Switzerland) ◆ Amberg Engineering (Italy) ◆ Politecnico di Torino
Christos Anagnostopoulos Marco Barla
(Greece) ◆ Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Italy) ◆ Politecnico di Torino
Georgios Anagnostou Andreas Benardos
(Switzerland) ◆ ETH Zurich (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
Ioannis Anastasopoulos ( Adam Bezuijen
Switzerland) ◆ ETH Zurich (Belgium) ◆ Ghent University
Georgios Angistalis Florence Bieri
(Greece) ◆ Attiko Metro SA (Switzerland) ◆ B+S AG
Georgios Apostolopoulos Nuh Bilgin
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens (Turkey) ◆ Istanbul Technical University -ITÜ
Pavlos Asteriou Antonio Bobet
(Greece) ◆ OTM SA (USA) ◆ Purdue University
Stefanos Athanassopoulos Nikolai Bobylev
(Sweden) ◆ Lund University (Russia) ◆ St. Petersburg State Polytechnic University
Ömer Aydan Daniela Boldini
(Japan) ◆ University of Ryukyus (Italy) ◆ Sapienza Università di Roma

6 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

Scientific Committee
George Bouckovalas Erik Eberhardt
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens (Canada) ◆ University of British Columbia
Nikolaos Bousoulas Heinz Ehrbar
(Greece) ◆ Attiko Metro SA (Switzerland) ◆ Heinz Ehrbar Partners
Wout Broere Amanda Elioff
(The Netherlands) ◆ Delft University (USA) Parsons Brinckerhoff
Armund Bruland Søren Eskesen
(Norway) ◆ Norwegian University of Science (Denmark) ◆ COWI
and Technology
George Exadaktylos
Werner Burger (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
(Germany) ◆ Herrenknecht AG
Brian Fulcher
Carlo Callari (USA) ◆ McMillen Jacobs and Associates
(Italy) ◆ Università degli Studi del Molise
Vojtech Gall
Linard Cantieni (USA) ◆ GZ Consultants
(Switzerland) ◆ Nagra
Robert Galler
Marliena Cardu (Austria) ◆ University of Leoben
(Italy) ◆ Politecnico di Torino
George Gazetas
Trevor Carter (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
(Canada) ◆ Golder Associates. Ltd
Dimitris Georgiou
Tarcisio Celestino (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
(Brazil) ◆ Universidade de São Paulo
R.K. Goel
David Chapman (India) ◆ CSIR-CIMFR
(UK) ◆ University of Birmingham
Alexandre Gomes
Elma Charalambidou (Australia) ◆ SMEC
(UK) ◆ Herriot-Watt
Giovanni Grasselli
Weizhong Chen (Canada) ◆ University of Toronto
(China) ◆ Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing
Alessandro Graziani
Elena Chiriotti (Italy) ◆ Universita Roma 3
(France) ◆ INCAS Partners
Eivind Grøv
Filippos Chortis (Norway) ◆ Norwegian University of Science
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens and Technology
Jens Classen Jafar Hassanpour
(Germany) ◆ Implenia (Iran) ◆ University of Tehran
Emilios Comodromos Chuan He
(Greece) ◆ University of Thessaly (China) ◆ Southwest Jiaotong University
Antonia Cornaro Karl Gunnar Holter
(Switzerland) ◆ Amberg Engineering (Norway) ◆ Norwegian Geotechnical Institute
Michel Deffayet Longhua Hu
(France) ◆ CETU (China) ◆ University of Science and Technology of China
Nicola Della Valle Hongwei Huang
(Spain) ◆ Tunnelconsult Engineering Ltd (China) ◆ Tongji University, Shanghai
Mark Diederichs Jon Hurt
(Canada) ◆ Queens University (USA) ◆ ARUP
Arnol Dix Dimitris Kaliampakos
(Australia) ◆ ALARP Group (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
George Dounias Anastasios Kallianiotis
(Greece) ◆ EDAFOS Engineering Consultants SA (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens

Bulletin #2 7
Scientific Committee
Zeynep Karantza Athanassios Mavrikos
(UK) ◆ Univesity of Edinburgh (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
Michael Kavvadas Maria Menegaki
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
Nikolaos Kazilis Davide Merlini
(Greece) ◆ GEODATA SpA (Switzerland) ◆ Pini Group
Kiyoshi Kishida Günther Meschke
(Japan) ◆ Kyoto University (Germany) ◆ Ruhr-University Bochum
Nikolaos Klimis Theodoros Michalakopoulos
(Greece) ◆ Democritus University of Thrace (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens - NTUA
Spyridon Konstantis Elias Michalis
(UK) ◆ Ruler Consult (Greece) ◆
Nikos Koronakis Mike Mooney
(Greece) ◆ Omikron Kappa Consulting S.A. (USA) ◆ Colorado School of Mines
Konstantinos Kyritopoulos Nasri Munfah
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens (USA) ◆ GZ Consultants
Donald Lamont Priscilla Nelson
(UK) ◆ Hyperbaric & Tunnel Safety (USA) ◆ Colorado School of Mines
Lars Langmaack Matthias Neuenschwander
(Germany) ◆ MC-Bauchemie (Switzerland) ◆ Neuenschwander Consulting Engineers
Nikos Lavdas Bjørn Nilsen
(Switzerland) ◆ Rothpletz & Lienhard & Cie (Norway) ◆ Norwegian University of Science and
Technology
Eric Leca
(France) ◆ ARCADIS Pavlos Nomikos
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
George Leoutsakos
(Greece) ◆ Attiko Metro SA Spyridon Papakonstantinou
(Switzerland) ◆ Bächtold & Moor
Shucai Li
(China) ◆ Shandong University, Jinan Stefanos Papavasileiou
(The Netherlands) ◆ Plaxis / Bentley
Xiaozhao Li
(China) ◆ Nanjing University Dimitra Papouli
(Greece) ◆ Aktor
Dimitrios Litsas
(UK) ◆ Mott MacDonald Chrysothemis Paraskevopoulou
(UK) ◆ University of Leeds
Michail Lotidis
(Greece) ◆ EDAFOS Engineering Consultants SA Danielle Peila
(Italy) ◆ Politecnico di Torino
Konstantinos Loupasakis
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens Frederic Pellet
(France) ◆ INSA LYON
Ulrich Maidl
(Germany) ◆ mtc-Maidl Tunnelconsultants GmbH Paolo Perazzelli
(Italy) ◆ Pini Group SA
Thomas Marcher
(Austria) ◆ TU Graz Evangelos Pergantis
(Greece) ◆ Attiko Metro SA
Vasilis Marinos
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens Alexandros Petalas
(UK) ◆ Durham University
Daniele Martinelli
(Italy) ◆ Politecnico di Torino Andrea Pigorini
(Italy) ◆ Italferr
Stefan Maurhofer
(Switzerland) ◆ Amberg Engineering

8 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

Scientific Committee
Erich Pimentel Maria Stavropoulou
(Switzerland) ◆ ETH Zurich (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
Kyriazis Pitilakis George Stoumpos
(Greece) ◆ Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Greece) ◆ Attiko Metro SA
Claudio di Prisco Artem Syomik
(Italy) ◆ Politecnico di Milano (Switzerland) ◆ Lombardi
George Prountzopoulos Gary Tang
(Greece) ◆ Omikron Kappa Consulting S.A. (New Zealand) ◆ CMW Geosciences
Nikos Rachaniotis Markus Thewes
(Greece) ◆ Egnatia Odos SA (Germany) ◆ Ruhr-University Bochum
Peter Raleigh Alun Thomas
(USA) ◆ McMillen Jacobs Associates (Denmark) ◆ All2plan Consulting ApS
Marco Ramoni Kurosch Thuro
(Switzerland) ◆ Basler & Hofmann (Germany) ◆ Technical University Munich
Dimitrios Rizos Carmine Todaro
(Egypt) ◆ Orascom (Italy) ◆ Politecnico di Torino
Jamal Rostami Zvonko Tomanovic
(USA) ◆ Colorado School of Mines (Montenegro) ◆ University of Montenegro
Tatiana Rotonda Maria Tsakiri
(Italy) ◆ Sapienza Università di Roma (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
Xavier Roulet Nikos Vagiokas
(Switzerland) ◆ Bernasconi SA (Greece) ◆ ENALOS
Konstantinos Sakkas Sotirios Vardakos
(Greece) ◆ University of Patras (USA) ◆ HNTB
Charalampos Saroglou Ioannis Vazaios
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens (UK) ◆ ARUP
Alex Schneider Giulia Viggiani
(Switzerland) ◆ Rothpletz & Lienhard & Cie (UK) ◆ Cambridge University
Britta Schoesser Nikolaos Vlachopoulos
(Germany) ◆ Ruhr-University Bochum (Canada) ◆ Royal Military College of Canada
Felix Schroeder Christos Vrettos
(UK) ◆ Geotechnical Consulting Group LLP (Germany) ◆ University of Kaiserslautern
Roberto Schuerch Tai-Tien Wang
(Switzerland) ◆ Pini Group (Chinese Taipei) ◆ National Taiwan University
Gerard Seingre Markus Weh
(Switzerland) ◆ B&G (Switzerland) ◆ Marti
Keh-Jian Shou Xiongyao Xie
(Chinese Taipei) ◆ National Chung Hsing University (China) ◆ Tongji University, Shanghai
Alexandros Sofianos Paraskevi Yiouta-Mitra
(Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens
Giovanni Spagnoli Chungsik Yoo
(Germany) ◆ MBCC Group (Korea) ◆ Sungkyunkwan University
Panos Spyridis Bai Yun
(Germany) ◆ TU Dortmund (China) ◆ Tongji University, Shanghai
Jamie Standing Ioannis Zevgolis
(UK) ◆ Imperial College (Greece) ◆ National Technical University of Athens

Bulletin #2 9
 This is Athens

The city of Athens is much more than what it seems

The cradle of democracy and civilization: yet, beyond its rich history, Athens is a vibrant modern
European city with an old-town feel; ancient monuments fuse with a trendy, cosmopolitan scene.
Masterpieces of significant architectural values stand tall today in a harmonious coexistence with
impressive modern buildings.
The Presidential Mansion, Iliou Melathron (which houses the Numismatic Museum of Athens today),
the National Theater, the National Archaeological Museum, the house of Parliament are just few of
the iconic buildings within the city center which coexist harmonically with modern buildings of high
architectural value such as the House of Letters and Arts, the New Acropolis Museum, the Cultural Center-
Stavros Niarchos Foundation, and the National Art Gallery. Such unique contradiction combines the legacy of
the past with the dynamics of the future.
Athens, a vibrant modern European capital situated by the Aegean Sea, is an ideal location for international
conferences. Following the unprecedented circumstances that the pandemic caused and after tolerating while
within a pandemic, for almost two years, the necessary social distancing, the lockdowns and the long-lasting travel
restrictions, the need to hold a conference with a physical presence has become a great desire for all of us and we look
forward to this moment with great anticipation. Thus, timeless Athens sounds like the ideal conference host city and the
meeting hub of the tunnelling and underground space professionals, thanks to the pleasant climate conditions during
mid-May and its unique blend of history, art, culture, lifestyle and entertainment.

Culture
Home of Plato’s Academy and Aristotle’s Lyceum. Birthplace of Socrates, Pericles, and Sophocles. Through their work,
key figures of Ancient Greek philosophy led the way for modern western thought, focusing on evidence and logic. Traces
of these famous Athenians can be seen around the city, kept in its world-class museums and hallmarks.
A pioneer in technology, ancient Greece demonstrated unique technological achievements, the first substantial
evolutionary step in the field of innovation. The most important expression of the imaginative spirit of the ancient
Greeks is the Antikythera mechanism, which measured astronomical data: this mechanism is considered the beginning
of high technology.

10 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

Innovation
Ancient Greece’s contributions, as a pioneer of innovation, lay in every corner of the world. The roots of science, philosophy,
and history were laid in this country. Yet, today’s city doesn’t rest on its laurels: Athens takes inspiration from this heritage,
and continues to innovate. Multiple faculties call Athens home: numerous laboratories and research centers make all
innovation possible. Conference organization helps to spread this knowledge to scientists from all over the world. This
process opens new horizons, constantly working on new ways to improve everyone’s life.
In 2018, Athens was named the European Capital of Innovation of the year, gaining an award that recognizes European
cities that use innovation to enhance their sustainability, offer opportunities for the active involvement of their citizens,
and contribute to open and dynamic innovation ecosystems, while continuously collaborating with citizens in the decision-
making process.
Today, responding to the global challenge of transforming cities into “smart” ones, Athens made a dynamic entry with
“Project Athena”, a pioneering pilot project that will bring significant improvements to the lives of Athenians, through
the implementation of innovative technological applications. With the first goal of effectively dealing with two “hot” and
chronic problems faced by residents and visitors to Athens, cleanliness and accessibility, the “Project Athena” is operational
today. It consists of studying and implementing accessibility measures for pedestrians and people with disabilities, and
the strategic placement of sensors in the urban fabric, which collect data on street and air cleanliness, noise pollution,
temperature, and humidity.

Geography
This privileged land in the south of Europe has been treated generously by nature. Combining its blue sky and nurturing
sun, the Athens Riviera is hard to beat. All large development plans in the area are a testament to its well-established
future prosperity.
The capital of Athens gathers almost one-third of the country’s population. The basin of Attica, where Athens and Piraeus
are located, has five mountains: Mount Aigaleo and Poikilo Mountain on the west, Parnitha and Penteli in the north, and
Hymettus on the east, while the south of Athens is outlined by the Saronic gulf.
The center of Athens is surrounded by hills and parks, such as Lycabettus Hill, Philopappou Hill, and of course, the Hill of
the Acropolis. Furthermore, underground rivers such as the Iridanos, Kifissos, and Ilissus flow through. Several parks of
beauty also dot Athens, such as the National Gardens, the Antonis Tritsis Park, and the Park of Veikou Hill.

Cuisine
Traditional Greek food with the variety and quality of its ingredients, in context
with beneficial combinations and the knowledge of centuries, enjoys a privileged
position in world gastronomy. This tradition is based on four secrets: the fresh
ingredients, the correct use of herbs and spices, the famous Greek olive
oil, and its simplicity. Additionally, the Greek cuisine culture brought an
extroverted social dimension to the table, combining taste satisfaction with
entertainment and communication.
Historically, Greek gastronomy dates back to ancient times, when
Archestratus wrote the first cookbook in history around 330 B.C. He
was the first to approach cooking as an art and made extensive
references on the importance of eating fish and legumes, as well
as drinking wine – both of which were highly appreciated by
the ancient Greeks. Yet, these still remain among the typical
ingredients of a healthy modern Greek diet.

Bulletin #2 11
 Full paper
Submission The paper submission process is currently
underway. So far more that 600 abstracts
have been submitted for approval.

MORE THAN

600
ABSTRACTS
SUBMITTED
2023 World Tunnel
Congress Paper
Submission Form

All Authors with accepted abstracts have already received a personalized link to submit their full
paper. The online paper submission form (Electronic Submission Platform) may also be accessed
via the above button that will direct the authors to the WTC2023 platform which will request the
necessary personalized credentials (username and password).

All papers will be peer

reviewed by members of
the Scientific committee
which counts more than
one hundred fifty (150)
members from more than 30
countries and revisions may
be requested for the final
acceptance of the paper.

12 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

 Registrations

Registration Fees – Physical Attendance

(Fees & Entitlements)
Early Standard On Site

May 2nd, 2022 - During the Congress Dates

February 1st - April 30th, 2023
January 31st, 2023 (12th-18th May 2023)

Full registration 875.00 € 1,050.00 € 1,150.00 €

Young Members 450.00 € 600.00 € 700.00 €

Cat. 3 550.00 € 700.00 € 800.00 €

Students 170.00 € 220.00 € 320.00 €

Physical Registration Fee Entitlements (Full, Young Members, Cat.3, Students)

✔ Attendance at all sessions
✔ Welcome cocktail
✔ Opening Ceremony
✔ Coffee breaks and lunches during congress days
✔ Access to the Exhibition area
✔ Congress Material
✔ Live access to the 3D Digital Platform
✔ On-demand recorded sessions attendance for a minimum of 2 months after the congress closing)

Registration Fees – Virtual Attendance

(Fees & Entitlements)
Early Standard On Site

May 2nd, 2022 - During the Congress Dates

February 1st - April 30th, 2023
January 31st, 2023 (12th-18th May 2023)

Full registration 525.00 € 630.00 € 730.00 €

Young Members 270.00 € 360.00 € 460.00 €

Cat. 3 330.00 € 420.00 € 520.00 €

Students 100.00 € 130.00 € 230.00 €

Physical Registration Fee Entitlements (Full, Young Members, Cat.3, Students)

Access to the 3D Digital Platform for:
✔ Virtual live attendance at all sessions
✔ Access to the Virtual Exhibition area
✔ e-Congress Material
✔ On-demand recorded sessions attendance for a minimum of 2 months after the congress closing)

Bulletin #2 13
 Registrations

Other Registration Categories

(Fees & Entitlements)
Physical Registration Fee Entitlements

Day Access to the Venue/ Congress for:

✔ Attendance at day sessions
✔ Day Coffee breaks and lunches
One day ticket 500.00 €
✔ Access to the Exhibition area
✔ Live access to the 3D Digital Platform for the selected attendance date
✔ Congress Material

Half Day Access (from 14:00 onwards) to the Venue/ Congress for:
✔ Exhibition Area Visit
Visitor pass 150.00 €
Registration category booking will be available only onsite and on the day
of the visit.

✔ Welcome cocktail
Accompanying person 200.00 € ✔ Opening Ceremony
✔ Athens City Tour & Acropolis Museum

✔ Welcome cocktail
✔ Opening Ceremony
Exhibitor additional pass 300.00 €
✔ Coffee breaks and lunches during congress days
✔ Access to the Exhibition area

Virtual Registration Fee Entitlements

Day Access to the 3D Digital Platform for:

One day ticket 300.00 € ✔ Virtual Attendance at day sessions
✔ Access to the Exhibition area

Visitor pass Does not apply virtually

Accompanying person Does not apply virtually

Access to the 3D Digital Platform for:

Exhibitor additional pass 150.00 € ✔ Representing the Company through a Virtual Booth
✔ Live Networking with Delegates (through chat & video calls)

14 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

 WTC2023
Accommodation

The Professional Congress Organizer (CONVIN S.A.) has secured a number

of rooms, in various hotels of all categories in Athens near the WTC2023
Conference Venue. Taking into consideration the global situation,
the accommodation services offered will be aligned with COVID-19 protocols,
concerning certification and compliance. Early booking is highly recommended.
For group bookings (5 rooms or more), please contact the Professional Congress
Organizer at: registration@wtc2023.gr
Group reservations are not accepted online as different terms and conditions apply.
For individual hotel bookings please visit the WTC2023 online Services Booking Form.

Walking Distance
Hotel Category Single Room* Double Room*
from Venue

Divani Caravel Hotel ★★★★★ 12min (1km) 270 € 310 €

Divani Palace Acropolis ★★★★★ 37min (3km) 260 € 290 €

Crown Plaza Athens City Center ★★★★★ 10min (0,8km) 250 € 265 €

AIROTEL Alexandros ★★★★ 8min (0,6km) 245 € 260 €

AIROTEL Stratos Vassilikos ★★★★ 9min (0,7km) 245 € 260 €

ASTOR Hotel ★★★★ 25min (2km) 220 € 230 €

Best Western Plus Embassy ★★★★ 8min (0,6km) 220 € 240 €

Holiday Suites Arnis Street ★★★★ 8min (0,6km) 220 € 235 €

President Hotel Athens ★★★★ 20min (1,5km) 205 € 215 €

The Golden Age Hotel of Athens ★★★★ 8min (0,6km) 175 € 190 €

Electra Palace Athens ★★★★ 30min (2,5km) 170 € 185 €

Ilisia Hotel Athens ★★★★ 6min (0,5km) 130 € 145 €

Athinais Hotel ★★★ 7min (0,5km) 130 € 145 €

PAN Hotel ★★★ 25min (2km) 105 € 115 €

The available hotels are sorted according to Single Room Price range.

Bulletin #2 15
 WTC2023 Accommodation
Hotels price range
5 2
4 Hotel category Rates per night

5* from 250€ 2.100

4* from 130€
rooms

3 3* from 105 €

1 1 Pan Hotel
These hotels are in vicinity to
2 ATHINAIS HOTEL venue on foot or
the congress
M by public
3 President transportation.
Hotel Athens
St. Megaro
Mousikis
4 Ilisia Hotel
8 1 Megaron Athens International Conference Centre
9 5 The Golden Age Hotel of Athens
2 Airotel Alexandros Hotel
6 Electra Palace Athens
6 3 Airotel Stratos Vassilikos Hotel
74 Holiday Suites Arnis Street
Athinais Hotel
85 Best
Best Western Plus
Western Plus Embassy
Embassy Hotel
Hotel
M 10 96 Astor Hotel
Crowne Plaza Hotel
St. Evagelismos
7 Airotel
10 StratorHotel
Divani Caravel Vassilikos Hotel
8 Airotel
11 Golden Alexandros
Age Hotel

9 Divani
12 HolidayCaravel Hotel
Suites Hotel

10 Divani
13 Ilisia Hotel
Palace Acropolis
7
M Crowne
14 Metro Station
Plaza Athens City Center
15 Megaron Athens International Conference Centre

16 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

 Travelling to Athens – Ease of Access
Arrival in Athens
Athens International Airport is connected with more than 30 domestic
Arrival & destinations and around 60 European cities. It also hosts more than 15
direct flights overseas to America, Asia and Africa.

Transport AIA is part of the Support team of the Conference. Its contribution
will include the safe, comfortable and unobstructed movement of the
participants and visitors affiliated with WTC 2023.

FINLAND
NORWAY
SWEDEN

LATVIA RUSSIA

AIA is part of the Support

CANADA IRELAND NETHERLANDS
U.K. POLAND
BELGIUM GERMANY
CZECH R.

team of the Conference. Its

AUSTRIA
SWISS ROMANIA
FRANCE

CROATIA
SERBIA
MNE
GEORGIA
ALBANIA
PORTUGAL ITALY

contribution will include

SPAIN

MALTA CYPRUS
LEBANON
CHINA

the safe, comfortable and

ISRAEL

EGYPT

unobstructed movement of
the participants and visitors
affiliated with WTC 2023.

20% Discount for Aegean Airlines Traveler All you need to do is:
Are you traveling to Athens for WTC2023? Will you 1. visit www.aegeanair.com
travel through the air? Well, we have managed to 2. use the promo code TUNNEL2023
secure a discount of 20% on fare for those who will 3. select a Flex Or ComfortFlex fare only (such as:
choose Aegean Airlines for their trip to Athens! P-U-T-S) and you will get your 20% discount!

Airport to City Center

Metro
Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) connects the airport of Athens to the city center. Trains depart every 30 minutes, 7 days a week
from 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. approximately. You will need around 40 minutes to get from the Airport to Syntagma
station (city center). The ticket costs 9 euros. You can use it for 90 minutes from the time you first validated it.
Suburban Train (Proastiakos)
The Suburban railway connects the Athens airport with the Athens Central Railway Station (Larissis Station). This station
gives you access to Metro Line 2 (Red Line) as well as the National Railway network. The train makes this journey every
60 minutes from around 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.. The ticket costs 10 euros.
Important note: The Suburban railway departs twice every hour from the Athens Airport to Plakentias station, where
you can change trains and continue to the city center with Metro Line 3 (Blue Line), using the same ticket.
Important note: The congress venue (MAICC) is located very close to the city center, with a metro station (Megaro
Moussikis) just outside the venue.
24-hour express buses
There is a bus that connects central Athens (Syntagma Square) to the Athens International Airport (AIA) “Eleftherios
Venizelos”. This bus is called X95. Service is provided on a non-stop basis seven days a week (24/7 operation). This bus
disembarks passengers at the Departures Level and starts its route from the Arrivals Level between Exits 4 and 5. The
route lasts about one hour. Tickets can be bought directly by the driver at no extra cost. The ticket costs 5,50 euros.
Taxi
Visitors to Athens can choose from a variety of taxi companies for their transportation. Taxis at the airport are available at
the designated waiting area located at Exit 3 at the Arrivals Level. A taxi from the airport to the city center costs a flat rate
(including luggage, VAT and road tolls) of 35 euros from 5:00 a.m. to midnight, and 49 euros from midnight to 5:00 a.m..

Bulletin #2 17
 Local
transportation
in Athens

Athens Metro Map

The Athens Metro system encompasses three lines:

Line 1. Green Line, from the port of Piraeus in the south of Athens to the suburb of
Kifissia in the north.
Line 2. Red Line, from Anthoupoli in the northwest to Elliniko in the south.
Line 3. Blue Line, from Agia Marina in the west to either the Airport or Doukissis
Plakentias in the northeast.
Lines 1 and 2 meet at Attiki and Omonoia stations. Lines 1 and 3 meet at Monastiraki
station. Lines 2 and 3 meet at Syntagma station.

Taxis
Taxis offer a 24-hour service and are quite cheap. They can be hailed down on the street
or otherwise picked up at taxi stands around major tourist places such as Monastiraki and
Syntagma.

Buses
There is a huge network of buses and trolleys (electric buses) that operates in Athens and
its suburbs. They usually operate from around 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. approximately.
You may have more information on the timetables here. One ticket costs 1,20 euro and
can be used for 90 minutes from the time you first validated it. It is virtually the same as
the one you use at the metro. This is why it can be bought in special kiosks around town
but also inside all Metro Stations.

Other means of transportation

There are more means of transportation that can help every traveler explore Athens,
such as: car or motorcycle rental, bicycle or electrical scooter rental, as well as some more
touristic choices, like the Hop-On Hop-Off bus and the Happy Train.

18 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

 WTC 2023 would like to invite you

WTC 2023 to take part in the technical visits

on Thursday 18th of May and enjoy

Technical Visits the experience of touring the most

exciting tunneling and underground
excavations projects that are
on Thursday 18th of May currently taking place in Attica

1. Athens Metro Line 4

The first phase of Line 4 (from Alsos Veikou to Goudi areas) is being constructed fully underground
by the joint venture “AVAX AE - GHELLA SpA - ALSTOM TRANSPORT SA” following a tender award on
2021 from the Project Owner ATTIKO METRO S.A.

Phase A’ of Line 4 “Alsos

Veikou - Goudi” : orange
coloured section

Main features of the Project:

• 12.8km line: double track TBM tunnel
• 15 underground stations with platform screen doors
• 9 intermediate or terminal shafts
• 2km underground forestations, underground trumpet structures and connecting tunnels
• A new Operation Control Center
• A new repair workshop in the existing Depot area
• Underground Train stabling and maintenance yards at both ends of the Line
• Transfer connections at two existing Stations (Line 2 & Line 3)
• 20 new 4-car automated driverless trains.
The Project’s estimated cost is 1,510,000,000.00 € and the estimated delivery time is 96 months.

Bulletin #2 19
 WTC 2023 Technical Visits

Among the technical challenges of this

Project is TBM tunneling under existing
Metro tunnels and excavation of new
stations close to operating Metro stations
whose safety and activities should remain
unaffected. Furthermore, boring or
digging under or next to high buildings,
sometimes old or historical ones in the city
center, has to be performed securing their
structural and serviceability standards.
The risk of coming across archaeological TBM cutter-head inspection
findings during excavation works is always
high in the Athens area and the issue of
how to protect them while not impeding
the works is of great importance.
The tour will start with a presentation of
the Project at a construction site office.
Delegates will then visit a number of
worksites to view tunnelling works and
construction of stations, shafts etc.
It is expected that by the time the
Technical Visits take place, TBM tunneling
Akademia Station preparatory works
works will have started and construction
of cut & cover structures (stations, vent.
shafts) as well as conventional tunneling
will be in progress.

Katehaki Shaft – boring of piles for retaining walls

20 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

 WTC 2023 Technical Visits

2. U
 nderground Construction of
National Railway Line in Athens
The Greek Public Railway Construction Company (ERGOSE) assigned
in 2018 the construction of a four-track rail corridor, 2.36 km long
of which approx. 1.9 km is fully underground, starting from the
Athens Central Railway Station and ending at Sepolia area, in Athens
Municipality. There the line connects to the new four-track rail corridor
which was recently completed and opened to traffic. The rail corridor mostly
runs within the occupation zone of the existing open air train tracks. The east
half of the four-track corridor will serve suburban trains, whereas the west half
will be used mainly for intercity services.
The project schedule has to provide for a number of constrains such as maintaining
the existing surface train operation, safe construction close to adjacent buildings, close
overpassing a Metro running tunnel and a Water Authority (EYDAP) culvert. The integrity
and serviceability of all those structures is to be secured during the works, therefore
modern instrumented monitoring is implemented.
When finished, the surface area above the underground corridor will serve 9 vertical streets
which are currently interrupted due to the on-ground corridor. Moreover, landscaping will
provide citizens with recreation areas of green (trees, shrubs).
Works are in full progress by the Contractor “J/V INTRAKAT SA – SIDIRODROMIKA ERGA ATE” and
Phase A is to be completed by 2024, while the whole project will be delivered by the end of 2025.
Following a brief presentation of the Project, we will visit a worksite to see construction work
of the underground part of the Line. It will be a half-day visit.

Bulletin #2 21
 WTC 2023 Technical Visits

3. T
 he Hellinikon Project –
Underground Coastal Road
The revitalization of the former Hellinikon
Airport area is the biggest project of its
kind in Europe and the most ambitious
development project ever undertaken
in Greece that will positively impact the
local and national economy. It combines
urban development, recreation facilities,
a huge metropolitan park and seafront
full accessible to the public. Access
through metro and tram lines will be
assured while the existing road along the
shoreline will be reconstructed to become
fully underground.
The Project of the Underground Coastal
Road was assigned by the Owner LAMDA
DEVELOPMENT to the Contractor AVAX
SA and excavation works have already
started. The underground road will begin
at the area of Alimos and rise to surface
at Ag. Kosmas marina. The purpose of
this Project is to allow connection of the
seashore front to the rest of the Hellinikon
area.
The tour includes presentation of the
Hellinikon Project at the Company’s
office and then walk the delegates
around the various worksites in the area
especially in the underground coastal
road.

22 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

WTC 2023 Technical Visits

4. D
 ionyssoMarble – Underground
exploitation of Pentelikon Marble
The famous marble that was used for the construction of the
Parthenon in the 5th century BC is a deposit in the Mt. Pentelikon in
Attica, about 20 km from Athens. In the ancient times, the huge pieces
of stone had to be hauled to the building site by oxcart. The roadway used
was a continual downhill, and followed the natural inclination of the land.
Pentelikon marble is currently exploited by Dionyssomarble who holds a
leading position in the production, processing and trade of marble and other
ornamental stone, marble dust and calcium carbonate filler. The increased demand
for dimension stone in combination to quarrying in an environmentally sensitive
area, has led the company to exploit part of its deposit using underground methods to
minimize their environmental footprint.
To achieve this goal, the company participated in a three-year research program of the
European Union, in the period 1999 – 2001. In cooperation with academic institutions and
mining industries from EU countries, an integrated methodology of planning and programming
for underground marble mining was developed.
The exploitation method is room and pillar with openings up to 15 meters wide, while
the maximum height of the excavations is 30 meters. Following studies and simulations
in collaboration with the School of Mining Engineering of the NTUA, preventive support
measures (anchors) are implemented.
During the visit at Dionyssomarble, there will be an initial briefing by the company on site,
its history and achievements and description of both the surface and underground mining
methods. A visit to the quarry with emphasis on the underground excavations area will
follow. A visit of the processing plant and the exhibition will conclude the excursion.

Bulletin #2 23
 WTC2023 Technical Exhibition
360o Virtual Tour

The Megaron Athens International Conference Centre (MAICC), is one of the finest conference venues in
Europe. MAICC is located in the city centre, offering a stunning environment, exceptional aesthetics and
cutting-edge technology.
Various promo alternatives are available that have been tailored to offer plenty of opportunities.
Navigate virtually, via the following link, within the exhibition spaces, get familiar with the luxury of
the venue and choose the booth that suits your expectations better.

Take a 360o Download the latest Version of the

Virtual Tour Plan View of the Exhibition Area

24 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

 …why not
combine business
with some leisure?

Nice walk to the Historic Center in Athens

It is impossible to be in the historical centre of Athens and not to be impressed by
the long history of the city. According to archaeological finds, the first inhabitants
must have been here over 9000 years ago. However, it is around the 5th century BC
when Athens flourished. This period is called the “Golden Age of Pericles”. First stop,
Plaka one of Athens oldest neighbourhoods with neoclassical mansions, little souvenir
shops and tavernas. From here you can also walk up the northeast side of Acropolis hill to
the neighbourhood of Anafiotika. Keeping the Cycladic architectural style, brought here by the
workers who came here from the island of Anafi to refurbish King Othon’s Palace, the narrow
streets and whitewashed houses resemble an island in the heart of Athens.
Walk down the Dionysiou Areopagitou pedestrian street, where the locals take their evening stroll.
Here you will meet a variety of street musicians and local artists giving amazing performances.

Bulletin #2 25
 …why not combine business
with some leisure?

Thession the a very lively area due to nice cafés and restaurants you will find there. Thession
is located under the hill of Philopappos with the Roman Monument and the Pnyx where the
Athenians used to hold their assemblies in ancient times. Nowadays, the locals come here to
enjoy this lung of green, to walk their dogs or have a picnic.
Once you reach Thession head down to the ancient Agora with the temple of Hephestus towards
the flea market of Monastiraki and follow Ermou Street to the Greek Parliament, at Syntagma
Square. The National Gardens and the remainings of the Temple of Olympian Zeus are nearby, as
well as the Panathenaic Stadium which hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

26 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

Special Places in less than two hour’s drive from Athens
Temple of Poseidon, Sounio
The Temple of Poseidon in Sounion has always had a special place in the hearts of visitors. Built at the same
time as the Parthenon, during Athens’ Golden Age, it wasn’t just a site of worship of the sea god Poseidon
(whose bronze statue stood more than 6m tall at its center) but – positioned high above the sea on the
southeastern tip of Attica – it was an indication for sailors returning to Piraeus that they were almost home.
Made entirely of white marble, it was erected in the middle of the 5th century BC and built to honor Poseidon,
god of the sea. You will be mesmerized by the blankets of blues, reds and oranges that engulf the temple as
the sun descends into the sea.
Less than an hour’s drive from Athens, the Temple of Poseidon continues to enthrall visitors today who can
combine a visit the archaeological site with time at the nearby beach. Where else can you swim in beautifully
clear water and gaze up at the marble-white columns of a 5th-century BC temple?

Nafplio
In a sheltered bay on the Argolic Gulf, this picturesque seaport
is full of old-world romance.
Nafplio  is  one of the warmest cities in Greece, making it
perfect for strolling and glove-less hand holding even during
the winter months. It’s a historic city, which is obvious not just
thanks to  the Venetian castle  that towers above it and  the
Bourtzi fort on the tiny islet in the entrance to the port.
In the old town, hugged by the old castle walls and the
sea, half the buildings seem to have a story you could write
a book about (like the Ottoman mosque which served as
the parliament building during when Nafplio served as the
capital of Greece).

Bulletin #2 27
 …why not combine business
with some leisure?

Islands near Athens, ideal for a day cruise

So close that you feel you could almost touch them, the charming little islands near Athens, which offer
history and style in abundance and are ideal for a quick getaway all year round. Just a short ferry or hydrofoil
trip from the port of Piraeus, Rafina or Lavrion port, you’ll find beautiful beaches, historic monuments, stately
buildings and one-of-a-kind hospitality.

Just a few of these islands suitable to visit on a day trip:

1. Tzia Island (01h 00m. | Lavrion Port)
2. Hydra Island (01h 30m. | Piraeus Port)
3. Kythnos Island (01h 30m. | Lavrion Port)
4. Andros Island (01h 55m. | Rafina Port)

1. Tzia Island

2. Hydra Island

28 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

 DO NOT
FORGET

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is

the great starting point for your tour,
whether you’re interested in a one-
day island cruise or you’re looking
forward to the ultimate island-hopping
adventure.
Organized Tours on the occasion of
WTC2023, will be available soon,
so stay tuned.

3. Kythnos Island 4. Andros Island

Bulletin #2 29
 Sponsorship & Exhibition
Opportunities

Companies are invited to take up a range of exhibition and

sponsorship opportunities to promote their brands, products
and innovations. Whether you are selling, promoting your
company, establishing your corporate message, researching
the industry or introducing new products, take advantage of
the unique Exhibition and Sponsorship opportunities during
the WTC2023 Congress in Athens.

DOWNLOAD THE SPONSORSHIP

& EXHIBITION BROCHURE
Download HERE
or scan the QR Code

For Sponsorship
& Exhibition
E-mail: sponsorship@wtc2023.gr

Please contact us to discuss sponsorship

packages tailored to fit your needs

30 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

 Spread
the Word

Help Spread the Word about WTC2023

We invite you to assist spreading the word about WTC2023 and join us for the
promoting the conference within your personal networks, on social media
platforms, in lectures and meetings.
Don’t forget to use the conference hashtag #WTC2023

Social Media
Join WTC2023 online community to get all news and updates about the Congress.

@WTC2023 WTC 2023

@WTC2023 WTC 2023

Promotional Toolkit
Please use the official branding materials to help us spread the word about
WTC2023. You can find below the promotional toolkit for the congress,
including the conference poster and official web banners.
Kindly note that for materials with different dimensions and specifications,
you may contact us via below communication channels.
Professional Congress Organizer: Convin S.A.
E-mail: promo@wtc2023.gr

E- Congress Poster
Please insert the e-poster of the Congress in your journals, website, event programs
or print it as hard copy promotional material (A4 size).
Click here to view and download the WTC2023 poster.

Web Banners
Please post the WTC2023 web banner on your website, event calendar, use at
appropriate virtual meetings and/or as your e-mail signature.
Click here to view and download the WTC2023 web banners.

Bulletin #2 31
 Contact us

Professional
Congress CONVIN S.A.
Organizer K. Varnali 29, 15233, Athens, Greece
+30210 6833600
info@wtc2023.gr
www.convin.gr

CONVIN S.A is the official Congress partner for

hospitality services (i.e hotel accommodation,
land arrangements etc) and is the only agency
offering hospitality services on behalf of the
WTC2023.
A variety of rooms have been secured in a wide
range of hotels in the area of the congress venue.
Early booking is highly recommended.

E-mail: sponsorship@wtc2023.gr
For Sponsorship Please contact us to discuss sponsorship
& Exhibition packages tailored to fit your needs

(Registrations and/or hospitality

For Delegate services/accommodation)
Services E-mail: registration@wtc2023.gr

www.wtc2023.gr

32 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece

Notes

Bulletin #2 33
www.wtc2023.gr

Hybrid

34 WTC 2023 • Athens, Greece