Tennessee Consortium for International Studies (TnCIS): Traveling - TnCIS in Italy

With beauty, history, art, architecture, food, wine, and culture, Italy offers the perfect setting for the study of many academic disciplines. Encompassing a legacy of genius in art and architecture that extends through every era from ancient to the most contemporary. Italy offers an excellent opportunity to experience the development of western art, civilization, society, and culture. 

The program begins in Tuscany, which is distinguished by rolling hills, snow-capped mountains, and dramatic cypress trees, providing gorgeous views at practically every turn. The region is known for art, architecture, wine, cheese, and olive oil. We will stay at the rival cities of Siena and Florence. One of Italy’s best preserved medieval towns, Siena was built on three hills and is surrounded by well-preserved city walls and filled with fine examples of Gothic and early Renaissance architecture. Next, we travel by train to Florence, home of the Renaissance and birthplace of the modern urban lifestyle. Many consider Florence to be Europe’s cultural capital. 

Next, the program will travel by train to the city unlike any other, Venice, Italy. Venice is full of epic grandeur, signature canals, opulent architecture, and inventive cuisine. The city, built on water, continues to defy convention at every turn. Fabulous palaces and churches reflect centuries of history in what was a wealthy trading center between Europe and the Orient. There is always something new to discover in a city that continues to excite, enlighten and surprise at every turn.

Lastly, the program will travel by train to Rome. Rome cultivates history. It is Italy’s capital and largest city, birthplace of the Renaissance, the Roman Empire, and the Roman Catholic Church. An ambience unlike any other, learn why it is called the eternal city. Rich with beauty, history, opulent art, and fine cuisine there is so much to see in Rome. Bernini fountains, baroque basilicas, Michelangelo frescos, and street markets are found in the same city with chic designer stores, terrific restaurants, and a contemporary mass transit system.