This open access book presents a selection of peer‑reviewed contributions from the conference held at the Accademia dei Lincei on October 17–18, 2023, marking the centenary of the founding of the Italian National Research Council (CNR). Bringing together leading scholars and researchers, the volume reflects on the historical development, achievements, and enduring impact of CNR initiatives across a broad spectrum of disciplines.

The contributions highlight how research programs promoted by the CNR have played a pivotal role in shaping both the natural sciences and the humanities in Italy. They document the evolution of major scientific and cultural projects, illustrating their integration into the country’s intellectual and academic landscape and underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing complex challenges.

The volume also captures forward‑looking perspectives presented during the conference, including the concluding Round Table on “Future Directions of Research in Italy,” opened by the Italian Minister of University and Research, Anna Maria Bernini. These discussions provide insight into emerging priorities, strategies, and opportunities for Italian research in a rapidly changing global context.

As an open access publication, this volume offers a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and historians of science interested in the institutional development of research, the interaction between science and society, and the future trajectory of scientific and humanistic inquiry.