Art History Alive

arthisto November 21st, 2008

ITALY – ROME AND FLORENCE
JUNE 11 – 19, 2009
9 DAYS GROUP SIZE: 4-8
PRICE PER PERSON $5,000.00

NOTE: Below is a good example of just what travel is like with ART HISTORY ALIVE. If you find that this post does not pique your interest, then you may not be a good fit for AHA, but if you begin reading and find yourself wanting to read and learn more, it is ten times better when we are there. Cynthia

All roads should lead to the awesome city of Rome at least once in a lifetime. Jim and I have traveled far and wide in this world, but since our discovery of Italy in 1987, we return every chance we get. And in all of that little boot, Rome has the strongest draw for us. Accumulativley, we have spent over 4 months in that city, and still we keep going back. Of everywhere we have been, Rome holds for us the richest and most stimulating bounty of art, history, architecture (which is an art), and culture, hands down.

On this trip we will literally spend time in, under, and around Rome. Our tiny group of travelers will go down into a hidden, lesser-known catacomb under the bustling Roman streets on a guided tour where you can ask all the questions you need to fully understand. We will wander the Forum and Coliseum, explore St. Peter’s Basilica and experience the art of Michelangelo, Bernini, and Caravaggio. Along the way and over delicious meals, these questions and more will be answered:

On warm evenings we will sit in outside cafés on cobblestone alleys and watch the most interesting people in the world stroll by. We will shop, rest and, overall, catch the Spirit of Rome which, you will want to take home with you.

Following our stay in Rome, we will hop the fast train north to Florence for four more days in this walkable gem of the Renaissance. Florence rose to its zenith following the fall of Rome and the ensuing 1,000 years, once referred to by the poet Petrarch as ” The Dark Ages”. Here, in Florence, in the late 14th century man began to question his place in this world and the long standing tradition that sons will automatically go into the family’s business. For example, why did a baker’s son have to be a baker simply because he was born into many generations of bakers? Why did he have to be a baker when he exemplified talent in math, science, languages or drawing? It was at this time in history that the baker, and thousands of his peers, not only in Florence but all over Italy, France, Germany and more, made what would become a world-changing decision. What did the baker do? He decided to educate his son! Not only to become learned in one subject but in many, simultaneously. This had not been done on this level for over 1,000 years. That generation of common laborers broke an age-old tradition, and these young men were educated by philosophers, poets, artists, and astronomers. The ensuing discussions in which freedom of thought was encouraged, new ideas were born and cultivated, detailed treatises written, copied and sent around the known world, changed it forever. Florence’s 200 year long Renaissance, and what is now known as the Humanist Movement, have benefited mankind ever since.

In Florence today, art and culture abound and their history can mesmerize. As you walk the streets you will witness the expression of the Renaissance and its enlightened thought all around you. The innovative architecture, the sculpture, and paintings. Even though little Florentine shops have modern conveniences and gorgeous displays in their windows, these same shops once housed the bakery, fabric stores, butchers, paper, and candle makers of the Renaissance. I will immerse you in the city that is Florence, I will show you the very spot where Michelangelo carved The David, Florence’s symbol of strength and, arguably, the most famous piece of High Renaissance sculpture in the world.

Whether you are experiencing Rome and Florence for the first time or are returning to visit “two old friends”, Italy continues to cast its spell. Don’t miss this under-the-surface adventure.
Physical Level: Moderate

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