Archeology, Art & Sea
Rome, Naples, & The Amalfi coast

 


Few regions of the world offer so much history in such an enchanting and breathtaking geographical setting! This interdisciplinary template is particularly suitable for programs combining curriculum in classical studies, history, political science and art/architectural history with an experiential component. The program can be customized to emphasize particular themes and objectives or to include more leisure opportunities for non-academic groups interested in combining a vacation with some substantive learning opportunities.

Program Objectives

Introduction to and explication of the art and architecture of classical Rome

By walking through the buildings & monuments of classical Rome, one gains an appreciation for the various innovations and characteristics of classical art & architecture— including various orders, building techniques, artistic expressions, the social-politicalreligious function of art and architecture, and the great engineering achievements of the Romans.

Illumination of the social customs of classical Rome

Through visits to the various archeological sites of Rome and the vast archeological park in and around Pompeii, one captures the daily life, practices, customs, and world view of ancient Romans. Local experts bring 1st and 2nd century Rome to life with lively stories and examples of historical characters while visiting baths, temples, markets, court rooms, palaces, villas and other urban institutions.

Consideration of Medieval and Renaissance appropriations of Roman art, architecture, social customs, politics and religion

Visit the great museums and breathtaking churches of Medieval and Renaissance Rome and Naples, experiencing first-hand how classical culture was transformed and appropriated by Christianity. See the great classical sculptures unearthed in the 16th century that inspired a whole generation of artists, scholars and politicians.

Schematic Outline of Program Visits


In Rome, the program includes visits to the Pantheon, Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Basilica of S. Clemente, S. Paul Outside the Walls, the Catacombs, the Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s, and other central Roman sites. In and around Naples, the program includes visits to the archeological complex at Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, the Archeological Museum in Naples, and other central Neapolitan sites.

The program template includes seven nights (4 in Rome, 1 in Sorrento and 2 in Naples). 4 days in Rome, and 3 full days in Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast and Naples.

The program can be lengthened for inclusion of other sites (particularly the Greek temples at Paestum, Hadrian’s Villa outside of Rome, or the archeological complex at Ostia Antica). Substitutions of sites can be made. For example, instead of traveling along the Amalfi coast, some groups may want to add other archeological sites in and around Naples—such as Herculaneum, Cuma or Pozzuoli. For more leisure oriented groups, an excursion to Capri can be arranged.