Roman Holiday
The Paideia Institute invites you to join us for a one-week Roman Holiday this summer, from July 3 - July 7, 2023. This curated experience will give you the opportunity to see some of Rome’s most famous cultural and historical sites, participate in discussions with Paideia staff, faculty and parents, and get a glimpse of what makes traveling with Paideia such a transformative experience for our students. Rome is one of our favorite places, and we’re excited to share our favorite parts of it with you: the architecture, the history, the art, and, of course, the food!
Each guided activity will be paired with a meal. Participants are welcome to join us for the whole week or choose itineraries à la carte.
Itinerary
Monday, July 3: Walk the Aventine Hill
Enjoy a walking tour of the Aventine Hill. One of the oldest neighborhoods in Rome, it is also the site of Stephen's school, where our Living Latin in Rome High School Program takes place. Spend the morning exploring the walls of ancient Rome, medieval basilicas, and even view another country when we visit the Rome headquarters of the Knights of Malta.
The aranceria near Santa Sabina on the Aventine Hill
Tuesday, July 4: Day Trip to Hadrian's Villa
Just like modern Romans, emperors, popes, and Renaissance nobles relished a chance to get out of the heat of the city. We'll take a day trip to nearby Tivoli, a remarkable town of 50,000 that is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sights. We'll see the spectacular ruins of Hadrian's villa, have lunch by the Temple of the Sibyl, and maybe catch a glimpse of the renowned Villa d'Este.
Hadrian's Villa at Tivoli
Wednesday, July 5: Caravaggio’s Rome
Caravaggio’s paintings are justly celebrated throughout the world, and are prized features of many of the greatest collections. It was in Rome that he forged his reputation, and some of his most striking works can be found in the city’s churches, such as San Luigi dei Francesi and Santa Maria del Popolo. This walking tour will introduce you to the many Caravaggio masterworks hidden throughout the city.
The Church of San Luigi del Francesi
Thursday, July 6: Bernini masterpieces at the Galleria Borghese
The most spectacular of Rome’s public gardens, the Villa Borghese is also home to a world-class art collection. Among works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Titian, Bernini’s sculptures stand out as superb examples of his imagination and skill. We’ll explore the gardens and take a tour of the collection’s highlights.
Bernini's Rape of Proserpina at the Galleria Borghese
Friday, July 7: Artifacts of Early Christian Rome
We'll visit the Basilica of San Clemente, an architectural palimpsest that reveals centuries of early Christian and medieval Roman history. Below the present-day Basilica, built in the 12th century, lie a 4th century church featuring medieval Christian frescoes from the 8th and 11th centuries and a 1st century Mithraic temple.
The Basilica of San Clemente
Fees
A per-day fee of $125 per person covers all entrance and guide fees as well as lunch or dinner near the visit.
Lodging and Transportation
Attendees are responsible for their own airfare and lodging. We recommend Hotel Sant’ Anselmo on the Aventine. If you need further recommendations, please contact [email protected].
If you plan to join us, please reserve your spot no later than May 12, 2023.