The Grand Tour was a long journey undertaken by the European aristocracy starting from the 17th century. It had an undefined duration and usually had Italy as its destination, although other cities of continental Europe were sometimes visited too. Let’s find out 4 reasons why it’s a great idea to study art history in Italy‘s Grand Tour cities!
1. Educational travel
The purpose of the Grand Tour travels was education and knowledge acquisition. It was the first type of educational, slow tourism! During the Grand Tour, people learned about the culture, art, politics, and antiquities of European countries. They spent their time sightseeing and studying. This kind of slow travel is very important for one’s personal growth, especially in today’s world where everything happens so fast. It allows you to dig deep into cultures, eat locally, experience life like a local, and appreciate the value of time and quality.
2. Inspiring witnesses
Illustrious personalities did the Grand Tour between education and good living. Examples include John Milton, George Byron, Johann Wolfgang Goethe, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Montesquieu. Many wrote down their travel experiences in their personal diaries. Among the most famous is Goethe’s Italian Journey, written between 1813 and 1817. Different books and movies feature stories set in the Grand Tour context. One notable example is the 1985 movie “A Room with a View”, set in Florence.
3. Amazing art cities
It’s no surprise that Italy was the Grand Tour’s most popular place to visit. The legacy of ancient Rome, the Renaissance art in Florence, the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum that had been rediscovered recently in 1748, the fine wine and food everywhere… these were some of the ingredients of Italy’s allure. The classic itinerary of the Grand Tour included Venice, Florence, Rome and Naples – all cities with an immense artistic heritage.
4. Quality art courses
Studiainitalia fully embraces the concept of Slow Travel and educational tourism. Our motto is viaggia e impara, travel and learn. Our art history courses in Florence, Venice and Rome are taught with the Grand Tour spirit: they are private, exclusive courses led by a maestro guide who introduces you not only to museums but also to the secrets and curiosities of the art cities.
With our quality courses, you can travel deeper! Check out our art history student reviews. We also offer Italian courses in other cities that were popular destinations of the Grand Tour itinerary, such as Genoa, Milan, Bologna, Naples and Taormina.
Are you intrigued and would like to study art history in Italy?
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