This two-week interterm is designed to provide experiences that introduce you to many of the magnificent cities of this country. You will explore cathedrals, ruins, monuments, food, and historic places in central and northern Italy. The trip starts in Rome, moves to Florence, and eventually ends in Venice. During the trip, you will learn about the culture, architecture, art, and history of these three cities. You will visit the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and the Pantheon and tour the Vatican Museum. Other experiences include guided walking tours of Florence and Venice where you will see cathedrals, museums, schools, art galleries, and modern and historic shops. Day trips to nearby historic and cultural sites such as Ostia Atica, Pompeii, the city of Reggio Emilia (known for having the best early childhood schools in the world), the Gothic town of Siena, and Pisa will also be taken.
Learning Objectives : You will 1) gain an appreciation of the history and culture of this country; 2) visit historic and cultural sites to better understand the complex nature of the Italian culture both past and present; 3) work in small groups to reflect on and discuss major historical and cultural episodes throughout Italian history and make presentations to the rest of the group; 4) be able to compare artistic, historical, and educational experiences of Italy to those in the United States.