91ÌÒÉ«

Study, explore and discover the artistic and cultural beauty of Italy as a country and as a major influence of western civilization and the humanities. This is a remarkable opportunity to see Venice, Florence, Rome, Vatican City, and more. Italy has a rich legacy with a timeline that spans all major periods: Etruscan, Roman, Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical and Modern. 

 

UNESCO data indicates that Italy is home to 60% of the world’s cultural patrimony: churches, cathedrals, archeological areas, buildings, museums, houses and statues. Italy has 61 UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the greatest number than any other country. The nation is filled with some of the most fascinating cities in the world, together with treasures of art and architecture that have profoundly affected the course of history. The entire cities of Venice, Florence, Rome, and Vatican City have earned the prestigious recognition as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in their own right.

 

Program Director

Dr. Mark Temelini (temelini@stu.ca)

Italian Professor, Romance Languages Department

 

Course

ITAL 2033 - Travel-Study: Introduction to Italian Culture and Civilization

This study tour of Italy offers a harmonious blend of language, culture and countryside. It presents an overview of Italian civilization from its origins to the present day. Topics to be examined include major Italian artistic and literary movements. Highlights encompass visiting various Italian cities and experiencing a unique immersion into Italian art, architecture, cuisine, history, religion, music, fashion, and current events. (The course is taught in English, 3 credits, knowledge of the Italian language is not required. No prerequisite required) 

 

Itinerary
This year’s itinerary starts in Venice (4 nights) including the islands of Murano and Burano; and proceeds to Florence (4 nights) including the Duomo Museum; and proceeds to Rome (8 nights) including Vatican City, and an archaeological day trip to the ancient city of Roman Ostia. The Itinerary will also pay homage to important architectural and artistic landmarks related to our University’s (Italian born) namesake as we follow in the footsteps of 91ÌÒÉ« Aquinas.

 

Day 1 Departure from Canada. Overnight flight.

Day 2 Arrival in Venice. Explore Mestre neighbourhood.

Day 3 Venice. Islands of Murano and Burano.

Day 4 Venice. Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Basilica,

Day 5 Venice. Cannaregio area, Libreria AquaAlta, Arsenale area.

Day 6 Venice to Florence. Explore the Gavinana neighbourhood.

Day 7 Florence. Medici landmarks of the Renaissance. Piazzale Michelangelo.

Day 8 Florence. St. Mary’s Cathedral, Baptistery, Museum.

Day 9 Florence. Basso Castle Fortress, Central Market. Dante Alighieri’s House.

Day 10 Florence to Rome. Explore Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona.

Day 11 Rome. The Ancient Roman city: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trajan’s Markets.

Day 12 Rome. Piazza del Popolo to Piazza Campidoglio walkabout.

Day 13 Rome. Garden of Orange Trees, Santa Sabina Basilica, Tiber Island, Trastevere district.

Day 14 Rome -> Vatican City. St. Peter’s Basilica. Castel Sant’Angelo

Day 15 Rome -> Ancient city of Roman Ostia. Archaeological walkabout.

Day 16 Rome. Catacombs and the mysterious secrets of underground Rome.

Day 17 Rome. Villa Borghese Gardens.

Day 18 Rome. Departure from Italy.

 

Participants
This course is open to everyone 18 years of age or older who would like to combine their love of travel with a cultural learning experience. All are welcome to participate for credit or non-credit: students, alumni, friends.

 

Travel Requirements

• a valid passport.
• International students should confirm with their Diplomatic/Consular Representatives for specific information.
• Students will be required to sign a liability waiver and to demonstrate proof of travel insurance.

Travel to Italy

Students are responsible for making their own air travel arrangements.  Please do not book air travel until you have confirmation that this program is definitely running.  If students are interested in travelling together in the same group, please let Dr. Temelini know and arrangements can be made to book the same flight.

 

Cost
$3950.00 (CAD)
                                                                                                                        

Cost Includes

• registration
• tuition for 3 credit hours of instruction
• partial transfer fees airport-hotel
• 16 nights of accommodation (double or triple occupancy)
• 16 breakfasts
• 1 group supper at a unique gastronomic restaurant in Rome
• all entrance fees to museums and sites that are visited as part of the program.
• program related ground transportation (boat, bus, train, metro).

The cost is the same for participants who wish to audit the course and participate in all the daily activities.

 

Cost Does Not Include

• air transportation
• international medical/travel insurance
• daily lunches and suppers

How to Apply

A $500 refundable deposit is due on or before Friday December 12, 2025 on a first-come, first-served basis, submitted to Dr. Temelini.

 

To register with deposit, contact Dr. Mark Temelini at temelini@stu.ca to set up a meeting. Maximum enrolment is limited to 16. Once maximum enrolment is reached then there is a waiting list. The remaining amount of $3450.00 is due on or before Wednesday January 28, 2026.