eft fall 2015.indd - Italy

educational field trips
FALL 2015
EFT educational field trips is the academic department of Florence University of
the Arts which provides students with first-hand learning experiences. EFT field learning
activities lead students away from the typical tourist mindset, giving the opportunity to
experience Italy through a native perspective to create a clearer view and lasting impression
on their minds.
minds
We know that the more positive our reaction and memories are to events, the better we learn.
With this in mind, EFT’s aim is to create experiences rich in positive emotions. Hands-on
involvement leads to increased interest on the part of learners, and so we believe that it is
extremely important to encourage the students in field learning activities - an essential
part of every study abroad experience. This might involve being engaged and challenged, as
students explore areas and situations totally new for them. Our teachers are here to assist
the students in communicating with their new environment and surroundings, facilitating
in this way their cultural exploration and understanding.
For us the academic aspect is a priority. In our vision Educational Field Trips are not
isolated moments of fun, but they enrich in an enjoyable way the content of the courses held
in the classroom, contextualizing the information received in class through on-site lectures.
Selected readings, communication with other participants and with Italians, and taking
part in local events make our field trips activities become an integral part of the courses.
At the same time EFT offers a well-organized and safe environment that makes the students
feel as comfortable and secure as possible so far away from their home. EFT field learning
trips are planned for a student budget, while providing very comfortable accommodations
and travel arrangements (3 star hotels, private charter buses), as well as entrance to all the
museums and guided tours. Syllabi with complete itineraries, history, tips, local recipes,
suggested readings and websites, are also provided by EFT, so that students will always have
a guide to the places and customs they are exploring.
UNDER THE SHADE OF
VESUVIUS: NAPOLI,
CAPRI, AND POMPEII
Sat . 19 / Sun. 20 September
COST 330€
Naples has been a vacation hotspot for not only Italians, but Europeans
and Americans alike since the 1700s. It has an amazing mixture of ancient
and modern sights, which continues to attract visitors to this day. It is now
one of the most populated cities in Italy and has become a much safer and
enjoyable place to visit once again.
Capri is the pearl of the Bay of Naples, often called the Pearl of Italy. Capri’s
natural beauty originally brought ancient Roman Emperor Tiberius to build
the famous Villa Jovis on the Island. The cities of Capri and Anacapri have
an aristocratic feel to them due to the development in the 19th and 20th
centuries. For about the past two centuries Capri has served as a home
for expatriates, artists, and eccentrics, as well as a vacation destination
for many.
For the last two hundred years Pompeii has been painstakingly brought
back to life after its burial in the Vesuvius eruption of 79 a.d. The
excavations began in 1748 and continue to this day. It is still unknown
when the ancient city of Pompeii was established, possibly the 8th or 6th
century b.c. It was a flourishing commercial center for most of its lifetime.
In 63 a.d., it suffered a devastating earthquake, yet it continued to flourish
and even increase its wealth and influence. The final nail in the coffin
though, was the eruption of Vesuvius on 24 August, 79 a.d. when the city
was covered with pumice stone and ash.
Itinerary
Saturday: Early morning departure from Florence to Naples. Arrival in
Naples, guided visit of the cities and sites. Free time for lunch and for
part of the afternoon, hotel check in. Transfer to Pompeii and visit of the
archaeological site. Return to Naples, group dinner and walking tour of
the city.
Sunday: Breakfast in hotel, transfer by ferry to Capri. Visit of the Island,
walking/funicular ride to the city center and panoramic walking tour.
Return to Naples in the afternoon and departure to Florence.
The fee includes
1 night in Hotel (multiple room) with breakfast
1 meal
Guided tour of Naples and entrance to the sites
Entrance and guided tour of Pompeii
Round transportation to Capri by ferry
Ticket for the funicular
Panoramic walking tour of Capri
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Define Italian Regionalism and assess that there are many “Italies” and
many “Capitals”.
Describe the urban development of a large city through the centuries.
Identify the achievements of Baroque art in Naples.
Describe daily life in Pompeii through the examination and analysis of
significant objects in the context of known historical facts.
Assess the achievements of the Roman Empire and its contributions to
Western civilization.
Payment deadline
Thu. September 10
EFT EDUCATIONAL FIELD TRIPS
TASTE OF ITALY: FLAVORS
OF PARMA AND MODENA
Sat. September 26
COST: 75€
This exciting field trip will give students a chance to experience first
hand all the steps of the production of three typical Italian products,
such as Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma and Aceto Balsamico
Tradizionale di Modena. This is an excellent opportunity to learn all the
secrets which make these high quality products unique and different from
all their imitations that can be found world-wide.
Itinerary
Early morning departure from Florence by private bus to a Caseificio
(cheese farm) near Parma. The students will be led through all the steps
of production - elaboration, maturation, heat branding, and sealing of
Parmigiano-Reggiano (also known as Parmesan cheese). The tour will
end with the tasting of this inimitable “King of the cheeses,” followed
by a late morning transfer to a Prosciuttificio (ham factory) in the area
of Parma. The famous “Prosciutto di Parma” is unique for its authenticity
and inimitable sweetness. A light lunch based on home-made delicacies
will be served before proceeding to the Acetaia (vinegar factory) where
there will be an explanation of the steps to producing the best Traditional
Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, and finally, there will be an opportunity to
taste the products and purchase them.
The fee includes
Round trip transportation from Florence
by private bus
Visit of the cheese farm and tasting
Visit of the Prosciuttificio and lunch
Visit of the Acetaia and tasting of vinegar
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Describe the processes of production of Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto
di Parma, and Balsamic Vinegar – all examples of the excellence of Italian
gastronomy.
Recognize the centuries-old traditions of Italian Food, the connections
between territory and culture.
Explain the protection policies of the local products in Italy and Europe (DOP).
Assess the role of food and wine in Italian culture and lifestyle.
Payment deadline
Wed. September 23
FALL 2015
CINQUE TERRE: HIKING
BETWEEN SKY AND SEA
Sun. September 27
COST: 60€
Cinque Terre lies along the Ligurian coast (North West of Florence) and
consists of 18 kilometeres of rocky coastline abounding with bays, beaches
and deep sea, surrounded by mountains running parallel to the coast.
Terracing cultivated with vineyards and olives, kept under control by old,
dry stone walls. Paths and mule tracks look onto breathtaking views. Five
villages (Cinque Terre), Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and
Monterosso face onto the sea. An environment in which centuries old work
of generations has transformed an inaccessible territory into a landscape
of extraordinary beauty. It is a Natural Reserve, declared World Heritage of
Humanity by UNESCO in 1997.
Itinerary
Morning departure by bus from Florence to La Spezia. This is where trains
for the Cinque Terre depart from. Arrive in Riomaggiore – the Southernmost
of the Cinque Terre. Free time to explore the town and to spend some time
at the beach. Proceed by train to Vernazza. Free time for lunch. Hike to
Corniglia (the hike is about 1 and 1/2 hour long and requires a little bit
of training). It is also possible to take a train from Vernazza to Corniglia
and meet the rest of the group later. Transfer by train to Manarola. Hike to
Monterosso and along the famous Via dell’Amore. Departure for La Spezia
by train, then for Florence by bus.
EFT EDUCATIONAL FIELD TRIPS
The fee includes
Roundtrip transportation by private bus
Transfers by train at Cinque Terre
Entrance to the Cinque Terre National Park
Tour leaders assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Identify how during the centuries men have adapted and created original
economic activities in a challenging environment.
Recognize the characteristics of Quality Tourism in Liguria, and understand why
the Cinque Terre became one of the most popular holiday destinations in Italy.
Describe the century old tradition of agriculture and viticulture on the
steep slopes of Liguria and understand why these activities are today
defined as “heroic”.
Identify the local character and the cultural diversity of the Italian Regions.
Payment deadline
Thu. September 24.
FLAVORS AND
ART OF TUSCANY:
MONTEPULCIANO
AND PIENZA
Sat. October 3
The fee includes
Round trip transportation from Florence by private bus
Walking tour of Montepulciano and Pienza
Visit of a local winery, wine tasting
Cheese tasting
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
COST: 80€
Montepulciano is a Renaissance town in Southern Tuscany and an
important agricultural center, famous for it’s “Nobile” wine. The town lies
on a hilltop in a panoramic position and is surrounded by the 15th century
defensive works by “Antonio da Sangallo”. Thanks to its history throughout
the centuries, the town has preserved many architectural jewels and
artistic treasures along side the natural beauty of the surrounding
countryside. Pienza, the town considered the “ideal Renaissance town”,
is a humanistic creation and vision of Pope Pius II. This place is also
famous for the production of “pecorino” cheese, which is a sheep’s cheese.
Different aging processes give the cheese particular flavors and textures.
This learning experience will lead you through some of the most charming
corners of our region, full of architecture, history, gastronomical traditions,
and untouched nature.
Learning outcomes
Define the Renaissance ideals of rationality and humanism.
Recognize Pienza as the attempt to realize the Renaissance utopia of an ideal city.
Analyze the relationship between humanism and architecture in the
Renaissance.
Assess the role of food and wine in Italian Culture.
Evaluate the “Renaissance” of quality wine in Tuscany over the last decades.
List the Italian official wine classification.
Evaluate an example of “Carbon-Free” Winery and the application of ecosustainable criteria in agriculture.
Compare Traditional Tourism and Ecotourism in Tuscany.
Payment deadline
Wed. September 30
Itinerary
Early departure from Florence to Pienza, including cheese tasting, then to
Montepulciano, walking tour of the renaissance towns. Transfer by bus to a
local wine farm in Montepulciano to visit the cellars, tasting of Vino Nobile
and local products.
FALL 2015
HIDDEN TREASURES
OF THE APUAN ALPS:
MICHELANGELO’S
QUARRIES, VERMENTINO
WINE, LARDO DI
COLONNATA
Sun. October 4
COST: 70€
In the Apuan Alps, the spectacular white Carrara marble quarries offer a
dreamlike sight. This precious stone has been quarried there since the 2nd
century BC and has been used for all sorts of different purposes, mainly
for amazing sculptures and architectures. Due to its extraordinary high
quality, this was one of Michelangelo’s favorite quarries where he would
personally select marble blocks for his masterpieces.
In the province of Massa-Carrara, the slopes descending from the marble
quarries to the coast are the domain of the Candia dei Colli Apuani, with
an annual output of 900 hectolitres. It’s a fairly old-established wine that
was mentioned in writings of 1874; in the course of time it has acquired
its own character that clearly distinguishes it from the wines produced
in the neighbouring areas of Liguria and Tuscany, although, in common
with them, it has a high percentage of Vermentino grapes. A DOC wine
since 1981, it should be drunk new with vegetable hors d’oeuvres and fish
dishes; the sweetish variety is ideal for accompanying desserts. There’s also
a dry type and a vin santo.
EFT EDUCATIONAL FIELD TRIPS
Itinerary
Early departure from Florence to the first stop, Carrara, for a guided visit of
a marble quarry. Then the experience continues with a stop in Colonnata,
for a tasting of Lardo – an IGP product. Visit to a winery that produces
Vermentino from Alpi Apuane, with tasting and light lunch. Finally, transfer
to Pietrasanta to visit the city and an artist workshop that transforms
marble into poetry for the eyes. Departure for Florence in late afternoon.
The fee includes
Round trip transportation from Florence by private bus
Guided tour of a marble quarry
Visit to a local sculptor workshop
Tasting of local products, including Lardo di Colonnata (IGP) and Vermentino
Tour Leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Explain the transformation process from a raw material into a work of art.
Describe the extraction techniques of marble and list the uses of marble
in art and architecture.
Evaluate Michelangelo’s creative process and his vision of art.
Explain the regulations for the protection of local quality products in Italy
and Europe (DOP and IGP).
Describe the processes of production of Lardo di Colonnato, an Excellence
of Italian Gastronomy.
Recognize the connections between territory and man in the centuries-old
traditions of Italian Food.
Evaluate the production of high quality wine in smaller areas of Tuscany.
Payment deadline
Thu. October 1
ONCE IN A CENTURY:
MILANO EXPO 2015
Sat. October 10
COST: 160€
Milan, the motivating force behind the financial sector of Italy (mainly
fashion industry), is the second largest city in the country behind Rome.
The city holds a strong position as the capital of the Province of Milan,
as well as the regional capital of the Region of Lombardy. Along with
the powerful names of Paris, New York and London, Milan is referred as
one of the fashion capitals of the world. The heart of the financial hub
of Italy lies in Milan with the National Stock Exchange located in the city.
It is a city where museums, churches and theatres can provide an insight
to the forgotten ancient generation. Window shopping, appreciating art
pieces, viewing the city through the horizon of the mountains or going
on evening strolls, can be as pleasurable as romantic. Leonardo Da Vinci’s
famous fresco ‘Last Supper’ is hosted in Santa Maria delle Grazie, while the
art gallery located in Brera, hosts a considerable number of paintings from
different authors, as well as ‘La Scala’, one of the most famous theatres in
Italy, both for the Opera and for Ballet.
There is a huge variety in the rich cuisine of Milan. Rice tends to be more
popular than pasta. However, pasta is quite important here as well, with
dishes such as “tortelli di zucca”, which is ravioli stuffed with pumpkin, and
“pizzoccheri,” which consists of buckwheat noodles cooked with potatoes,
cabbage and cheese. Another typical meal is “polenta”using mainly corn,
but also buckwheat, topped with mushrooms or meat- a rich dish typically
served during the winter. Finally, cheese, should get a special mention:
mascarpone, stracchino, taleggio and gorgonzola are popular here in Milan.
Expo Milano 2015 is a non-commercial Universal Exposition that also
implies a process of active participation among a large number of players
around the theme of “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life”. With over 130
exhibitors, it is sustainable, technological, thematic and focused on its
visitors.
Visitors will experience a unique journey that looks at the complex theme
of nutrition. They will take a trip around the world, sampling the food and
traditions of people from all over the globe.
Itinerary
Early morning departure from Florence. Transfer to the EXPO 2015 area for
an extensive tour of the exhibition.
Free time for lunch, then guided walking tour of the city centre, including
the Duomo, La Scala, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Brera. Entrance to
some of the sites, while the tour takes place.
Late afternoon departure for Florence.
The fee includes
Round trip transportation from Florence
Some meals
Entrance to the Expo
Entrance to the sites
Guided walking tour of the city
Tour Leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Evaluate the organization of an international event, such as a Universal Exposition.
Identify the issues connected to the nutrition and the resources of our planet.
Estimate how our actions today will impact the next generation.
Classify the issues related to sustainability and food production for a
growing population.
Describe the historical transition from Feudal to Renaissance society in
Northern Italy and the development of the City States in the 16th century.
Recognize the roots of Regionalism in the different historical
developments of the Italian Cities.
Rate Milan as the fashion capital of the world.
Illustrate the “economic miracle” which transformed Italy in an industrial
power and explain the consequent changes in Italian society.
Payment deadline
Wed. October 7
FALL 2015
CHESTNUT FAIR
IN MARRADI
Sun. October 11
COST: 50€
Marradi is a central location between Florence, Ravenna, and the Adriatic
Coast, located in the Mugello Area. It is located 65 Kilometers Northeast of
Florence, at the foot of the Apennines, and straddles the border of Tuscany
and Emilia Romagna.
Marradi was inhabited, beginning in the ancient times, by settlements of
Ligurians and Etruscans. It was conquered by the Gauls of France but after
the defeat of the Barbaric populations by the Romans, it became a defense
and resting place for travelers. There were many farms around this area,
one of them being named Marrato right on the bank of the Lamone River.
This is where the name Marradi was derived.
During the 16th century, many noble Italian families were exiled from
their hometowns and took refuge in the land where Marradi now sits.
These families refused to give up the comfort and elegance of city public
spaces and therefore built elegant homes which create the urban look, not
normally seen in the Apennines.
The chestnut is a product of high energetic and caloric levels essential for
mountain people to get through the winter. It is rich in fiber and great
for gastroenteric health. Furthermore, chestnuts are a great alternative
for children who have a lactose intolerance and for people with certain
cereal intolerances. Marradi annually houses the Sagra Della Castagna
every Sunday in the month of October, the start of the chestnut harvest.
Marradi has been celebrating this festival for the past 49 years in honor of
the renowned Marradi Chestnut and all the things that are made from it.
Sagra Della Castagna is perhaps the most important festival of the Upper
Mugello. During this festival there are great opportunities to taste the
local delicacies of Marradi, including chestnut tortelli, castagnaccio (a
unique cake made from chestnut flour), chestnut marmalade, marrons
glacés and the traditional fire roasted chestnuts.
Itinerary
Early departure from Florence to Marradi. Tour of the town and visit to a
local chestnut producer with tasting of local products.
Free time to spend at the local Chestnut Fair. Afternoon return to Florence.
The fee includes
Round trip transportation from Florence by train
Walking tour of the city and its surroundings
Visit of a local chestnut producer, with tasting of local products
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Marradi is internationally known for the Marrone di Marradi, one of
the finest chestnuts in the world. The chestnut is a fruit that represents
many faces of Tuscany such as its vegetation, its cuisine and its culture.
In the past, the chestnut was the main product of food for the mountain
populations of Tuscany. Today the chestnut is still an important product
of Tuscany, specifically chestnut flour. Chestnut flour is the base for many
products including, polenta, pasta, pancakes, cakes, and desserts. The
fresh chestnut can be prepared and eaten in many different ways including
roasted on the barbecue, boiled in plain water with the husk, or boiled in
salted water without the husk.
EFT EDUCATIONAL FIELD TRIPS
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Become familiar with less-known paths of Italian and Tuscan Culture.
Recognize the role and placement of a specific product in an area and
its marketing strategies. Assess the role of food and wine in Italian
Culture. List the Italian and European official product designation.
Compare Traditional Tourism and Ecotourism in Tuscany.
Payment deadline
Wed. September 30
SIENA, CAPITAL OF
CULTURE BETWEEN
TRADITION AND
INNOVATION
Sat. October 17
COST: 65€
Siena is the embodiment of a medieval city. Its inhabitants pursued their
rivalry with Florence right into the area of urban planning. Throughout the
centuries, they preserved their city’s Gothic appearance, acquired between
the 12th and 15th centuries. During this period the work of Duccio, the
Lorenzetti brothers and Simone Martini was to influence the course of
Italian and, more broadly, European art. The whole city of Siena, built
around the Piazza del Campo, was devised as a work of art that blends into
the surrounding landscape.
RCR is Italy’s largest crystal manufacturer and one of the largest in the
world. Located in the town of Colle di Val d’Elsa, in Tuscany, it is a symbol
of Italian design for the tableware, giftware and home decor. World’s Best,
a line of professional wine tasting glasses, was awarded for innovative
product design in 2014 at the Design Plus competition of Ambiente, the
international exhibition in Frankfurt.
The Enoteca Italiana, a public institution unique of its kind in Italy, was
founded in 1960 as a tool for the Ente Mostra Mercato Nazionale dei Vini a
DOC e di Pregio (National Fair/Market Board for DOC and Premium Wines)
with the purpose to spread the Italian Wine Culture.
Itinerary
Early departure from Florence to head to the first stop: a visit to RCR crystal
producer in Colle Val d’Elsa. Then, proceed to Siena, to visit and explore the
city. Visit of Piazza del Campo and ‘Musei Civici’, with frescoes and pictures
by Simone Martini, Duccio and other artists of the time. Last stop is a
guided visit and tasting/light lunch at Enoteca Italiana.
In the afternoon, free time to explore the city, then departure to Florence.
The fee includes
Transportation from Florence
Visit of RCR Crystal factory
Visit of sites in Siena
Visit and wine tasting, light lunch
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Define the characteristics of Cultural Heritage Tourism in Italy.
Describe the urban development of a medieval city through the centuries.
Explain the political and social changes of the 12th and 13th centuries that
led to the Renaissance era.
Identify the achievements of Gothic art in Tuscany.
Evaluate the revolution, which took place in the art of the 14th century,
through the work of Italian masters like Duccio di Buoninsegna, Cimabue,
Ambrogio Lorenzetti, Simone Martini.
Evaluate the “Renaissance” of quality wine in Tuscany over the last decades.
List the Italian official wine classification.
Assess the necessary skills and strategies to develop innovative, successful products.
Payment deadline
Wed. October 14
FALL 2015
TURIN & LANGHE:
THE CAPITAL OF THE
ITALIAN KINGDOM,
BAROLO WINE, AND
TRUFFLES
Sat. 7 / Sun. 8 November
COST: 300€
Turin is a striking, clean, and compact city of Italy’s northern region of
Piedmont. It is a town of many beauties, that has been described as lively,
clean and splendid. There is certainly something for everyone in this city,
which has flourished since its heyday of the 17th and 18th centuries. You
can find anything from baroque churches and palaces, to metal working,
and a modern day Olympic Stadium. Turin also houses the second largest
Egyptian museum of the world, after Cairo.
The ancient principality of Piedmont, the cradle of the Italian nation,
which literally translates into ‘at the foot of the mountains,’ sits at the
basin of the Alps. As its proximity would suggest, there are heavy French
influences to be found in this region, especially in the peculiar culinary
traditions. This area, in particular the low rolling hills known as the
Langhe, is famed for its cuisine, considered by many to be the best in
Italy. Chocolate and truffles are some of the local specialties. The region is
also home of the Nebbiolo grape, the variety that produces two of Italy’s
most famous wines: Barolo and Barbaresco.
Itinerary
Saturday: Early morning departure from Florence to Turin. Arrival in
Turin and hotel check-in. Visit of the city, the Egyptian Museum guided
by an expert archaeologist, visit of the Royal Palace and of the Museum of
Cinema. Group dinner in a local restaurant based on typical piemontese food.
Sunday: Breakfast in hotel, bus transfer to the Langhe region for a visit to
a winery and lunch, including a tasting of local wines and truffles. After
the visit departure to Florence. Arrival to Florence in the evening.
The fee includes
Round trip transportation from Florence
1 night in Hotel (multiple room) with breakfast
2 meals
Entrance and guided tour of the Egyptian Museum
Tour of the Cinema Museum
Visit to a winery in the Langhe region including wine and truffle tasting
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever is not listed in the “included”paragraph
Learning outcomes
List the political movements and the events, which led to the Unification of Italy.
Analyze the consequences of the Unification on the North/South polarity
and the subsequent history of Italy.
Synthesize the developments of Italian Cinema from its origins to date.
Recognize the geographical production areas of products of excellence
such as truffles, chocolate and Nebbiolo-based wines, like Barolo,
Barbaresco and Langhe.
Identify the local reality and traditions, its history and the enogastronomic literature.
Payment deadline
Thu. October 29
EFT EDUCATIONAL FIELD TRIPS
SICILY: CROSSROADS
OF MEDITERRANEAN
CULTURES
Fri. 13/ Sun. 15 November
COST: 380€
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea; along with
surrounding minor islands, it constitutes an autonomous region of Italy,
the Regione Autonoma Siciliana (Sicilian Autonomous Region). It extends
from the tip of the Appennine peninsula from which it is separated only
by the narrow Strait of Messina, towards the North African coast. Its most
prominent landmark is Mount Etna, which is at 3,320m (10,890ft) the
tallest active volcano in Europe and one of the most active in the world.
Sicily has a rich and unique culture, especially with regard to the arts,
music, literature, cuisine, architecture and language. Sicily also holds
importance for archaeological and ancient sites.
Itinerary
Thursday: Departure from Florence to Rome by High Speed Frecciarossa
train, then to Catania by overnight train (accommodation in 4-bed wagons)
Friday: Arrive in Catania, walking tour and tasting of cannoli. Free time for
lunch and hotel check in. Transfer by bus to a winery on the Mount Etna.
Group dinner based on local products and wine tasting. Walking tour to the
city center and free time for the rest of the evening.
Saturday: Breakfast in hotel, visit to the local market. Hiking excursion on
the Etna Volcano. Return to Catania and free time for the rest of the evening.
Sunday: Breakfast in hotel and check-out. Departure to Taormina, visit of
the small town and its archaeological sites. Free time in the afternoon,
group dinner, then transfer by bus to the train station for the overnight
ride back to Rome/Florence.
Arrival in Florence on Monday morning at around 9.20am.
Round trip transportation by an overnight train from Florence
Private bus transfer in Sicily
2 nights in hotel (multiple room) with breakfast
Entrance to the sites
Volcano excursion
2 meals
Cannoli tasting
Handouts
Tour Leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Define the impact of Greek culture on the Italian Peninsula and
demonstrate how Western Culture is rooted in Greek civilization.
Analyze Sicily as one of the first examples of multicultural society.
Compare the historically different development of Southern and Northern
Italy and the origin of the Southern Question.
Evaluate the connections between territory and economy and the efforts
of Sicilians to emancipate themselves from centuries-old economic
backwardness.
Identify the flourishing of Baroque art in Sicily.
Analyze the effects of volcanic eruptions on the lives and economic
activities of the people living near it.
Payment deadline
Thu. November 5
The fee includes
FALL 2015
RENAISSANCE AND
BAROQUE IN ROME:
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF
MICHELANGELO, BERNINI,
AND CARAVAGGIO
Sat. 21 / Sun. 22 November
COST: 240€
While the High Renaissance left its mark in Rome with the creative genius
of Michelangelo, it was the art and architecture of the 17th century that
defined the modern appearance of the Eternal City. The 1600s in Rome
meant High Baroque, a period characterized by theatrical, florid, and
fanciful creations, particularly in the sculpture of stone, whether in the
detail of a church facade, a fountain, or a freestanding statue.
The greatest exponents of the Roman Baroque were the sculptor-architectpainter Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who left his curriculum vitae virtually strewn
about the city, from his masterpieces in St Peter’s Basilica to his lesser
known but equally impressive works on the opposite side of town, and the
painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, probably the most influential
painter after Michelangelo on Italian painting style, which he transformed
from the formal, neo-classical Renaissance into the more earthy, vibrant,
and melodramatic Baroque style.
This educational experience will take us through the masterworks of the
16th and 17th century, concentrating mostly on Michelangelo, Caravaggio
and Bernini, examining the development of significant artistic movements
from the High Renaissance to the Baroque and providing the student with
a detailed knowledge of the three artists and their oeuvre within the
context of political, religious and social history.
EFT EDUCATIONAL FIELD TRIPS
Itinerary
Saturday: Early morning departure from Florence. Arrival in Rome, free
time for lunch and visit of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Cathedral.
Hotel check in and group dinner in a local restaurant.
Sunday: Visit of the Galleria Borghese. Walking tour and visit of the
Churches of Santa Maria della Vittoria, Sant’Andrea al Quirinale, San Luigi
dei Francesi. Free time for lunch. Visit of the Church of San Pietro in Vincoli
and San Carlino alle Quattro Fontane. Afternoon departure to Florence.
The fee includes
Round trip transportation from Florence
1 night in hotel (multiple room) with breakfast
1 meal
Guided tour of The Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter’s Basilica
Guided tour of Santa Maria della Vittoria, Sant’Andrea al Quirinale, San
Luigi dei Francesi, San Pietro in Vincoli, San Carlino alle Quattro Fontane
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Identify the important stylistic and technical developments of art in Rome
from the Ancients to the Baroque era.
Analyze the work of Michelangelo during his Roman period.
Explain the role played by the Vatican State in Italian History.
Asses the role of Baroque art during the time of the Counter Reform.
Reflect about the nature of change in a historical sense.
Payment deadline
Thu. November 12
EXTRA-VIRGIN OLIVE
OIL: A CULTURAL AND
GASTRONOMICAL
HERITAGE
Sat. November 28
COST: 65€
Extra virgin olive oil is one of the highest quality products for Italian
agriculture. It is produced in all regions of Central and Southern Italy, and
in a few areas with a particular microclimate in the North, as in the case
of Garda Lake.
they give to the oil, the techniques of olive collection, and about the
culture of oil making in Tuscany.
We will visit the frantoio (oil mill) and have the explanation of oil pressing.
A guided tasting of different kinds of olive oil will follow, so that we will be
able not only to learn the techniques of oil tasting, but also to understand
the differences between different varieties of olives and between a high
quality extra virgin olive oil and an industrial one.
The tasting will be followed by a lunch based on typical local products and
local wine.
The fee includes
Round trip transportation from Florence by private bus
Visit of the oil mill
Guided oil tasting
Lunch based on local products
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
Tuscany is a perfect balance of nature and art, beauty of the land and
climate. It is here that an excellent extra virgin olive oil is born, a result
of an age-old tradition. The variety of olive trees and the techniques of
cultivation, harvesting of the olives at the right stage of ripeness and
meticulous workmanship, combine to create an incomparable product,
recognizable in flavor, which brings with it all the nuances of this land. In
fact each area of Tuscany has tracts that differentiate it and make it unique,
just like the oil that comes from there. That’s why Tuscan IGP produced
throughout the region is characterized by its own specific feature, which
can slightly alter different accents of taste. This can be discovered through
the exploration of various production areas. Thanks to the patient care to
the trees and the groves, the result of the olive pressing is an unrepeatable
oil that you can taste during a visit to a mill.
The fee does not include
Itinerary
Payment deadline
Departure from Florence in the morning. Visit to an oil mill. The visit
includes a detailed introduction to the world of extra virgin olive oil in
general. Then we will have an overview over the production of olive oil in
Tuscany, the different varieties of olives and the different characteristics
Whatever not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Describe the processes of production of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a staple of
the Mediterranean Diet.
Understand the health benefits of olive opposed to animal fats.
Learn how to taste olive oil and recognize high quality extra virgin olive oil.
Recognize the centuries-old traditions of Italian Food, the connections
between territory and culture.
Explain the protection politics of the local products in Italy and Europe
(DOP and IGP).
Assess the role of food and wine in Italian culture and lifestyle.
Thu. November 25
FALL 2015
RENAISSANCE IN
TUSCANY: LUCCA
AND
ITS VILLAS
Sun. November 29
The fee includes
COST: 50€
The fee does not include
Lucca is one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy. It is surrounded by
perfectly preserved 16th-17th century brick city walls, which are one of
the town’s most remarkable features. The tree-lined promenade above the
walls provides a spectacular walk of over 4 km. During the Renaissance, the
tradition of excellence in carving found its expression in a large number
of churches, with beautiful sculptural decorations on their facades. Lucca
still has many ancient palaces with walled gardens and magnificent
Renaissance villas in the surrounding hills. The Cathedral of St. Martin
(The Duomo) is home to some of the most beautiful art masterpieces,
such as Ilaria del Carretto’s Tomb by Jacopo della Quercia, alongside with
sculptures by Matteo Civitali, considered the major Renaissance sculptor
outside Florence. Via Fillungo, the ancient “cardo maximus” of the Roman
city is today a lively street with elegant traditional shops, medieval towers
(of which the oldest and most interesting is the Tower of Hours), and
Renaissance noblemen’s palaces.
Itinerary
Departure from Florence. Visit of one Renaissance villa on the hills
around Lucca. Transfer to Lucca, walking tour of the Renaissance city
walls. Free time for lunch (Students will receive suggestion about
restaurants, bars or cafes). Afternoon visit to the Cattedrale di
San Martino (Duomo) with the sculptures by Jacopo della Quercia and
Matteo Civitali, Chiesa di San Michele and walking tour in the city center
and in Via Fillungo, to visit the ancient Renaissance buildings. Free
time for an exploration of the town. Afternoon departure to Florence.
EFT EDUCATIONAL FIELD TRIPS
Round trip transportation from Florence by private bus
Visit of one of the Villas on the hills surrounding Lucca
Visit of the Cathedral of San Martino
Visit of the Church of San Michele
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Assess the artistic achievements of the Renaissance outside Florence.
Analyze the architecture of the best-preserved example of Renaissance
city walls in Italy.
Describe the political development of cities in Italy from the Middle Ages.
Identify the local cultural differences, which characterize Italian Regions and cities.
Payment deadline
Thu. November 26
VENICE & PADUA:
THE GATEWAY BETWEEN
EAST AND WEST
Sat. 5 / Sun. 6 December
COST: 280€
Considered one of the most romantic cities of the world, Venice is made
up of a collection of more than 110 small islands, connected by a web
of canals and bridges. The city appears to be floating in the Venetian
lagoon, calm and serene, yet oddly threatened by the nearby Adriatic Sea.
Influenced by both Eastern and Western cultures, this once bustling city
has tons to offer visitors from all walks of life.
Padua is most well known for being the home of St. Anthony, where he
carried out numerous miracles. Today, his tomb brings in thousands of
pilgrims every year. Even after the rise of Venice, Padua was known for its
cultural leadership, prestigious universities, and humanist thought. Some
of the great Renaissance artists were called to Padua to work on important
commissions for the city’s enlightened aristocrats. Dante, Galileo, and
Petrarch all lived here at some point in their lives and Giotto’s magnificent
fresco work may be seen in the Scrovegni Chapel.
Itinerary
Saturday: Early morning departure from Florence by private bus.
Breakfast and lunch stop along the way. Leave luggage on the bus and
transfer by vaporetto to Piazza San Marco through the Grand Canal.
Walking tour of the San Marco Basilica, Palazzo Ducale and Rialto Bridge.
Free time for shopping and transfer by bus to the hotel in Padova. Hotel
check-in and group dinner in a typical restaurant.
Sunday: Breakfast in hotel and check-out, leave luggage on the bus.
Guided visit of the Scrovegni Chapel frescoed by Giotto. Transfer by
bus to Venice for a walking tour and visit of the Scuola Grande Di San
Rocco decorated with paintings by Tintoretto. Free time for the rest of
the afternoon for shopping or a gondola ride. Departure to Florence at
approximately 5.00pm.
The fee includes
Round trip transportation from Florence
Vaporetto pass or private boat transportation
1 night in hotel (multiple room) with breakfast
Guided tour of Giotto’s Scrovegni Chapel in Padova
Guided tour of the San Marco and Rialto district
Entrance and guided tour of the Scuola Grande Di San Rocco
Dinner in a typical restaurant
Handouts
Tour leader assistance
Insurance
The fee does not include
Whatever is not listed in the “included” paragraph
Learning outcomes
Understand the geographical, political and commercial forces that set
Venice during the centuries at the centre of a broad network of trade.
Explain the complex power relations of Venice with Western and Eastern
countries and the way they influenced Venetian art and architecture.
Understand the Revolution brought by Giotto in Western painting.
Reflect about the role of spirituality and religion in Italian Culture.
Identify the commercial activities connected to the Pilgrimage Tourism.
Payment deadline
Thu. November 26
FALL 2015
How to book your spot
(such as travel conditions, strikes, changes in opening hours, museum closures, delays
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complete your payment by the deadline specified for each excursion.
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Availability is limited. The Direction reserves the right to close registration before the
will be adjusted and travellers will be notified in writing as early as possible prior to
deadline, in case spots are sold out.
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and/or comments, please contact:
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Fua Florence University of the Arts
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