Course Description
The Grand Tour was a traditional trip through Europe for the upper class. The custom of embarking in this educational journey, started in the 17th century and lasted for centuries. Italy was the key destination of the Grand Tour. Nowadays Italy is still one of the most visited countries in the world and during our study abroad you will find out why. You will step into the past to better understand the present, you will be wondering in the arena where gladiators were fighting for their freedom, and you will be overwhelmed by architectonical beauty and timeless art.
Students will also reflect on how tourism has been changed in the last 300 years. Men have been traveling near and far since the antiquity, feeding the human desire of discovery, but the Grand Tour will start a new concept of tourism that is still lasting nowadays. Traveling in the course will expand the students’ awareness and understanding of multicultural perspectives. In order to acquire the necessary knowledge of Italian culture and traditions before traveling in Italy during Summer A, students will be exposed to virtual Italy through Google Arts & Culture App.
For more information on the travel portion of the two-semester program, please refer to its Study Abroad page.