Arcadia England

La Dolce vita

Last week, a group of our students got to experience la dolce vita quite literally in Rome, Italy. One group travelled to Rome for a weekend, and another group for 4 days dependent on their schedules and whether or not they had a reading week. No matter the length of time, many students claimed to be gelato and cannoli experts by the end of their stay!

Ancient Rome

No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to the famous Colosseum. Our students had the chance to visit this impressive structure to learn about how it was constructed and the events that transpired there. Construction of the Colosseum first began in 72 AD under the emperor Vespasian, but it was not completed until 80 AD by his successor Titus. The Colosseum is most famous for its gladiator fights, animal hunts and mock sea battles. Today, tourists are able to walk the same paths as ancient Romans and view the subterranean passageways that would have been used to transport animals and prisoners.

Our students also spent time exploring the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill located near the Colosseum. This area would have been the main hub of society in Ancient Rome. In this area you can see where Romans would have traded goods, as well as quiet spots where they would have sought solace in the hot months.

One evening our students fully submersed themselves in Ancient Rome through a night tour of Caesar's forum. This tour helps people to understand what it would have been like back in Caesar's day through the use of projected images on the ancient ruins. Both educational and entertaining, this was a highlight for many students.

Modern Rome

The Arcadia Rome Center were kind enough to loan us one of their faculty members, Fabio Barliari who specialises in architecture. He led us through the streets of Rome highlighting some of Rome's most famous structures like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. We also learned about the feud between the two famous Baroque architects Bernini and Borromini, which is best demonstrated by their competing works in Piazza Navona. Fabio's passion for Roman architecture was infectious and he encouraged the students to use all their senses as they explored Rome. 

Our time in Rome went too quickly, and hopefully many students will return in the future, which is what you are supposed to wish for in the Trevi fountain! Ciao, Italia!

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