History of Art & Architecture in Italy

Italy is blessed with perhaps the greatest collection of artistic masterpieces in the world. One calls to mind great classical buildings, enchanting medieval churches and monasteries, Renaissance sculpture, frescos and palace, Baroque sculpture, fountains and churches! The streets of many Italian towns are living museums. There are so many masterpieces scattered throughout Italy that even a lifetime is not enough to experience the vast richness of the Italian artistic genius.

Exploring the artistic heritage of Italy deepens and broadens one's own sense of humanity, helps give greater definition to one's own cultural heritage, and helps foster a sense of stewardship for the world heritage that we are all invited to pass from one generation to the next.

A journey into the artistic sould of Italy is a search for the spirit that transformed stone into the Colosseum, pigment to become the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, and marble to become rivers in the Piazza Navona. Experiencing these masterpieces awakens this same spirit and enables young people and old to become world citizens leading compassionate and creative lives.

Program Objectives

 

Introduction to classical art and architecture of Italy

Visit and experience the creative genius of ancient Romans as you walk through monumental buildings of the Forum, Colosseum and other archaeological zones and excavations in and around Rome. Gain an appreciation for the world heritage these sites represent.

Introduction to the development of religious art


With the great sacred space created in the unparalleled Pantheon, Italians began a breathtaking experiment in creating spaces that evoke a sense of the sacred and inspire spiritual wonder. Constantinian basilicas and medieval cathedrals continued this process culiminating in the great Duomo of Florence and St. Peter's in Rome. Explore the various techniques, symbols and forms of religious art and architecture. Be moved by the spirit that is expressed in religious art and symbol.

Gain an appreciation for different artistic periods and styles


Art reflects the unique world view and sense of humanity of each particular age. Italy offers a rich chronology of different artistic styles and the diverse cultural achievements they communicate.

Cities and Venues


Our programs are tailored to the learning objectives of particular groups. A nicely paced eleven day program includes visits to Rome, Assisi, Florence and Venice. Other venues that offer substantial opportunities include Naples, Siena and Ravenna. Shorter and longer programs are possible.

Select Sites


A sample of important sites for exploring the art and architecture of Italy include the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Capitoline Museums, the Roman Forum and Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Borghese Gallery, Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi, the Academia, Ufizzi Gallery, Bargello Museum and Convento di San Marco in Florence, and San Marco and the Academia in Venice.

Local Resources


In many places, Italian law requires local guides for groups. Illume engages local art experts and art historians that are matched to the learning objectives of each group we guide. In instances where an art history professor from the USA is a group leader, Illume will work with our local team to either certify his/her standing with local authorities or coordinate visits with licensed guides in such a way that the professor can contribute as much to the presentations as he/she is comfortable doing.

Email or contact us to learn more about how we can customize this program for your specific interests.