CULTURAL INTRODUCTION TO ITALY
Florence Italy
FALL 2014
Travel diaries
endicott! FUA Florence University of the Arts & Endicott College
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college A note from the staff: Olimpia Bozza
For me, the opportunity to live my country and explore it along with the students is something that is invaluable and really fills my heart. Many of the places that I have visited with the Fall14 students are places that I carry within me, in my memory, places of my childhood and where I have created important memories with my family. To be able to spend the presemester week with students is really almost to donate a piece of me, sharing the history of my family and that of my country. It’s exciting to repeat these familiar actions, which have shaped me for who I am today, with a group of young people who live this experience for the first time.I hope that I have been able to convey to them something of who we are in Italy, and at the same time I know I have learnt from them more than they imagine!
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THE COLOSSEUM
Rebecca Bohls I n t e r i o r D e si g n BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE then, we didn’t see any ancient architecture, but I recommended by my high school teacher. We got lost was able to observe the current Italian culture. I was around the Pantheon and asked for directions three IN ITALIAN CULTURE. I love that I am able to visit a country that appreciates wine for its quality. In the states, wine is only for the people of age and so the culture turned into the younger population abusing drinking instead of appreciating it. In Italy I have been able to learn the proper ways to drink and appreciate the quality. What I have taken away from this is that drinking wine is a social experience to bond with your companions.
able to take a breather from the busy travel days and appreciate the little things that make me love Italy. It was our first chance to go out into the city and converse with other Italians. The language barrier was tough, but it is shocking how much English Italians know. It makes me feel bad that in America we aren’t taught all the other languages very well and almost expect other countries to all know English.
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS… LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME. My time spent at Forte dei Marmi was some of my favorite during the pre-semester travel week. During
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On the first day in Rome. We had free time and I was determined to find Giolitti, the gelato place
times, but it taught me that I can accomplish so much, how independent I’ve become, and ways to overcome the language barrier.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT, IN MY OPINION, ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS… Italy is everyday walking through streets of history, while taking the time to appreciate the quality of what is around and embracing the companionship of others..
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Danielle Boucher In t e r i o r D e sig n CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO. IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE. CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL These places were magical, to me. Something OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS. you would see in a fairy tale or a Disney movie. When I stepped into line of sight to this garden, I was BECAUSE... Flowers were draping from the balconies of homes and everywhere along the street and across the vast landscape of the more rural areas in Italy. The architecture was a very old style, balancing the beauty in the colorful plants. It only fit that the people who lived in this area could not speak a word of English. They were simple, with a passion for their home, and every part of these towns tied together perfectly.
not expecting anything I saw. The beauty of such large mosaic pieces just screamed love in every section. The gardens I went to were traditional, up-kept gardens, leaving every hedge and branch trimmed perfectly. But going to Il Giardino dei Tarocchi let go of the traditional sense of “garden”, letting go of expectations and going against the grain. I felt like a child again, with a huge sense of wonder.
I felt more like a local at the start because I already had a basic understanding of social etiquette, manners at a restaurant, and simple words to communicate with the community.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... The food. I have only heard how good it was, but now I can know for myself that it is, in fact, the best food I have ever tasted.
CAPRAROLA
THE COLOSSEUM
Rebekah Capece Busine s s ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY. VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME. LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME. SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK Rome is a city that everyone needs to visit. Looking Forte dei Marmi is absolutely beautiful. I never HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL at pictures and reading about the history does not do thought I would find myself at a beach surrounded BECAUSE... this magnificent city justice. The Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica were my favorite places we visited. The Colosseum was so fascinating because of how intact the amphitheater was after all of these years. St. Peter’s Basilica was amazing and so beautiful. I am a Roman Catholic so I really enjoyed the time we spent inside the Basilica.
by mountains. The views of the mountains from the beach were breathtaking. After spending time in both Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio you could instantly tell that this was where Italians go on holiday.
I was able to familiarize myself with the Italian lifestyle and figure out the best way to adjust to living in a different country. By the time I arrived in Florence, it immediately started to feel like my second home.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT, IN MY OPINION, ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS… The country of Italy and its culture can be illustrated through fashion and food. Italy is the fashion capital of the world and home to the best food I have ever tasted.
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Kaitlin Desbiens In t er i o r D e si g n ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY. I had always pictured a true Italian village to be. I seen so many places in Italy after just one week made found a family-run restaurant and ordered my first me feel like I had more of an advantage over other REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME. Rome was a great place to start our orientation for our soon to be semester abroad in Florence. The history of Rome has been maintained so well throughout the city, and being an interior design major seeing the iconic Roman architecture was a dream come true. Aside from being so in love with the history of Rome, I felt like the Roman locals made me feel very welcome. The only thing I felt I needed to adjust to was the time zone.
Italian meal. The Gardens that lead to the hunting grounds were the most beautiful place we visited throughout orientation. Caprarola was my favorite stop during orientation; it was refreshing being in a smaller town after visiting Rome for two days.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL BECAUSE…
study abroad students.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS... In my opinion I would describe Italian culture as refreshing, because to me it is very refreshing compared to what I have grown up with in the US. Italians are very relaxed and care more about personal relationships and face to face contact which is refreshing to experience.
CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO. The travel week definitely helped me feel more comfortable with living abroad because I felt more ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE. Although Caprarola was a small village, it was what
knowledgeable about Italy. Being able to say I’ve
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TAROT GARDEN
Haley DiPietro Liber al S t udies Educ at ion IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION OF THE ETRUSCANS. WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS… The Etruscans were not a topic I was highly familiar Trying all of the new foods. During group dinners I was OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS. Il Giardino dei Tarocchi was one of my favorite places that we visited. It had a very modern feel to it, yet can still be compared to the more traditional Italian Gardens. Like Bomarzo, the sculptures were all different and unexpected, but made out of nontraditional materials. The variety of textures, colors and materials helped to make each piece interesting. Each sculpture was different from the others and had its own personal style.
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with before this trip. I am used to learning about something in school, and then going to experience it. Getting the chance to learn about them while standing in front of their ruins was a whole new experience. I was surprised by how important the after life was to them and how well built and preserved their belongings were. I was also surprised by how small the Etruscans were. I am considered short, but am taller then a full grown Etruscan male!
served many foods that I had not previously tried, but realized how delicious they were after trying them.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... Something that affirmed my expectations about Italy is how fresh all of the food is. All of the fruits and vegetables I have bought are so fresh and delicious.
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Christine Donohoe In t e r i o r D e sig n ROME 3000 YEARS OF ART & HISTORY: REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME.
BOLGHERI: THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT, IN MY IN ITALIAN CULTURE. OPINION, ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN As I was traveling to Rome for the very first time, I While in Bolgheri, I observed that wine is a very CULTURE IS… felt apprehensive and exhilarated. I had no clue what to expect. I had seen images of the incredible architectural wonders that exist in Rome, but was naive to their massive size and intricate details. While walking the streets of Rome, I felt as though I had traveled back in time. I would see large piazzas, fountains, or a monstrous ancient structure with every turn I took. Each new ruin I came across, I became more excited for the next. With my map in hand, I felt as if I was on a treasure hunt for ancient Roman ruins scattered throughout the bustling city.
significant part of Italian culture. Italian vineyard workers are very meticulous in creating great wines. As a result, Italians honor their hard work by appreciating wine paired with a delicious meal. True Italian food is always seasonal and prepared fresh. Italians use mealtime as a social time to spend with family and/or friends. They take their time to enjoy a multi course meal, and great company.
Italy is a beautiful country filled with many individuals who take pride in its art, cuisine, fashion, and rich history.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL BECAUSE… The travel week exposed me to a lot of Italian culture and language. I believe it played a significant role in enabling me to ease comfortably into life in a new country.
BOLGHERI
ITALIAN GARDEN WATER WORKS
Melissa Dube Art CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO. BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE. OF THE ETRUSCANS. These three places include statues, fountains and The Etruscans left behind many tombs in their village FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL BECAUSE: buildings to highlight the beautiful nature around them. They include both nature that was planted and nature that was already there. Water was an important part of these gardens because it adds movement and sound, so fountains and water chains were very common. Nature was also used to frame buildings or statues on the grounds, creating very symmetrical lines in the layout of the gardens.
right on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. They built them in such a way that they were able to survive all of these years. They were excavated and many were found to be in very good condition. They also found some traces of items, like chariots, in the tombs, leading us to believe that they buried their dead with possessions to help them in the next life.
By the time we arrived in Florence I felt like I already knew a lot about the culture. The travel week adjusted me to the Italian ways of life.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... Rome changed my expectation of Italian cities. I pictured a peaceful, low-key city, not something as busy as it turned out to be.
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Lauren Ecker Int er i o r D e si g n ROME 3000 YEARS OF ART & HISTORY: IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME. CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL As a designer, Rome was incredible to see. Ancient OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS. Rome was the foundation of architecture so standing Il Giardino dei Tarocchi, or the Tarot Garden, was also BECAUSE... amongst so much history was very humbling. My very memory of Rome was turning the corner and walking up to the Pantheon. At that moment I had to step back, put down my camera, and just take it all in and realize where I actually was. As a designer it was so important for me to have that moment in Rome and take in all that ancient Rome has to offer.
one of my favorites. The designer had free range and a blank palette for h er vision and it was very cool to see it come to life. Walking up to the gardens, I had a moment of “what the heck is this place?” However, using all of the senses to touch and feel all of the different patterns and colors was very stimulating for a designer. I think we all could relate to this garden. Sometimes you just want to use every pattern in the book to make one crazy mess of art.
The first week helped me get an understanding of food traditions in Italy. We learned about the right time to eat the bread, how much food you actually need to consume, and how great Italian food is compared to America.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT, IN MY OPINION, ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS… Italian culture revolves around food and the importance of preparing and eating the food with family and friends.
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CAPRAROLA
Mallory Farley Ho s pi t ali t y Man a gemen t CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO. VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER. ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE. LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME Caprarola was one of my favorite places we visited The coastal towns we visited were some of the FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL BECAUSE… during our pre-semester travel week, it’s really a place you don’t want to miss. I decided to take a turn down a road that didn’t look like much, where I found a quaint little coffee and gelato shop, where I tried my first espresso from Italy, and probably my favorite. The worker at the shop proceeded to ask if we had seen the church, got a key and let us in one of the most beautiful churches I have seen. This thoughtful act made my week, and I will never forget that little church.
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most beautiful places we stopped along the way to Firenze. Many of these towns are inhabited by people working in the marble industry. Also these towns are very touristy with other Italians for leisure time. So the atmosphere is much laid back compared to being in Roma or Firenze. I had some of the best Mediterranean food you can eat, saw amazing views of the Apennines and the Mediterranean Sea.
Traveling from Roma to Florence introduced me to the Italian culture. It helped me learn to appreciate the things that I never have before. Once we arrived in Florence, I felt at home.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS... Italy is an absolutely beautiful country with an incredible history, and a culture that will teach you how to appreciate the little things in life.
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Teagan Fortune In t e r i o r D e sig n IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY of taken back by all of the eccentric designs but as Also, being able to spend a little free time in Forte dei CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION I spent more and more time in the garden I grew to Marmi was very rewarding because it was a beautiful love and appreciate each and every piece that was town that was not too populated in tourists but it OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS. When I was told we were going to one last garden in our travels I was most definitely not expecting what the Tarocchi garden had in store for me. Pulling into the parking lot at the very beginning and seeing a sea of colors exploding over the treetops I could not wait to actually go inside. I was amazed by how contemporary all the designs of the sculptures and buildings were. To think that someone had designed an entire building out of tiny pieces of tiles and glass was mind blowing. Not just a building but a piece of art that you can step inside of. At first I was kind
there.
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME. Visiting the carnival was so amazing to be able to experience an event that is so important to the locals. Seeing how much time and creativity goes into each small aspect to pull it all together in the end and have a spectacular show was incredible. I was not expecting the floats to be at such a grand scale and have such intricate details, so that blew me away.
had more of an Italian home town feel to it. I loved going to the beach. I will never forget one couple that came up to us after over hearing us speaking English. They said they hadn’t heard anyone speaking English at the beach all day and they wished us the best in our studies in Italy. Right there I felt welcomed and I knew these next four months will be an experience of a lifetime.
VIAREGGIO CARNIVAL - A FLOAT
ET R U SCA N SIT E
Brianna Fullam Art BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS BOLGHERI: THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE OF THE ETRUSCANS. IN ITALIAN CULTURE. THAT I WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS... Baratti was breathtaking with its rolling hills and view of the sea. When we walked through the gravesite and into the tombs, I really felt like I was with the ancient Etruscan people. I could imagine the bustling harbor and the people walking around in robes. I will always remember how I felt when I walked into the tomb. The fact that you had to crouch down and walk down a long tunnel to get inside was a spiritual experience that transported me into the past.
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Our day at Bolgheri was the perfect day. Beautiful weather, food, wine and company. It amazed me at how precise and careful the people at the vineyard were at their job. They cared for the grape vines like they were their children, in fact the lady we met kept calling the grapes as a “him”. I enjoyed learning how to correctly taste wine immensely. The whole process is an art, from growing the vines all the way down to tasting the wine.
I will always remember how much we did in a day during the travel week. I will take it as a personal lesson that anything is possible when you work hard to get there.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... Something that affirmed my expectations, maybe even exceeded them was the beauty and love that I have found in so many historical, spiritual, and creative places that I have seen.
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Lauren Gallagher Art ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY. BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER. REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME. OF THE ETRUSCANS. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME Rome was my first taste of Italy that I will treasure Stepping into ancient burial grounds was creepy to FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL BECAUSE… forever. I was constantly being taken away by the insanely complex architecture surrounding me at all times; its elegance and sheer size was more than enough to make one at a loss for words. Our first destination on day two in Rome will forever be ingrained in my mind. Stepping into the piazza where St. Peter’s Basilica is located in Vatican City was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. A feeling of beauty, stillness and peace washed over me instantaneously while taking in the grandeur of my surroundings.
say the least but it was also a way for my mind to open up and finally grasp the idea of how far human civilizations go back in history. It was a reminder that there is a connection between all civilizations because we all walk on the same earth and although, we have different rituals and traditions, there are still many links between us. Walking in the footsteps of the Etruscans and grasping what I could about these still mysterious people helped me find an interest in these subjects that I never contained before.
I was already accustomed to the new time schedule and the crash course in culture and customs prevented me from experiencing any serious culture shock.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS... A slower and more appreciative way of life.
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CA P R A R OLA - V ILLA FA R N ESE
Chelsea Glynn In t er ior De sig n CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO. BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE. OF THE ETRUSCANS. WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS... Caprarola was a beautiful small town on a hillside. I enjoyed walking down the quiet, narrow streets and meeting some of the locals. It was a very peaceful place without any tourists. It was two very different experiences walking through the gardens of Villa Lante and Bomarzo. I really enjoyed Villa Lante, it was full of beautiful greenery shaped into spirals and detailed fountains. Bomarzo was not what I was expecting. I was under the impression it was another garden but it was a forest filled with monster sculptures. I liked how each sculpture had a story and along the way the sculptures reflected the theme of heaven and hell.
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The archaeological tour through the ancient Etruscan burial grounds had so much history. My favorite part was walking into one of the tombs and seeing how they buried their loved ones. I was surprised how much history was still left. The Etruscans built their tombs with stones and soil and some of them are still there today. It was very interesting to see these grounds and learn about the Etruscans.
Facing my fear of flying. I’ve been scared of planes for a few years now. It was a personal achievement for me overcoming my fear to be able to come to Italy.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS... Their appreciation of food, art and history. I have noticed Italians have so much respect for their meals and where they’re from.
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Sabina Grasso In t e r i o r D e sig n ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY. Visiting Il Giardino dei Tarocchi was as equally as when the other students arrived. While they were alluring as it was bizarre as it was enthralling. Arriving experiencing the same overwhelming emotions that REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME. America, though filled with history and culture, cannot begin to compete with a city like Rome. Arriving in a place filled with architecture and history from far before America was thought to have even existed was one of the most mind-blowing experiences I have ever had. Walking into Vatican City and being surrounded by colossal columns was indescribable, and taking our first official tour in St. Peter’s Basilica only further emphasized the impressive nature of Rome.
to what seemed to be the middle of nowhere and stumbling upon this glittering, fantastical scene was the last thing our unexpecting group of American girls had foreseen. Although the concept of this attraction was eccentric, and at times even a little unsettling, the incredibly beautiful effect that was created will certainly stand out in our memories of our week.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY BECAUSE… CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION Spending the week traveling was certainly beneficial prior to arriving in Florence, and became evident OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS.
we had the week before, we felt as though we had settled in, and could manage the culture with more ease.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS... My first experience swimming in the Mediterranean while visiting the Etruscan tombs was by far my most memorable experience. It was my moment of realization that I was, after all the anticipation, finally in Italy, and I felt completely enveloped in the countries’ beauty, culture, and history. It will forever be my most eye-opening, magnificent memory of our week.
VAT I C A N C I T Y
VILLA LANTE
Kellie Kerrigan Ho s pi t ali t y Man a gemen t CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO. IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE. CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS... Caprarola, Villa Lante and Bomarzo were a great next OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS. Learning that I have to adapt to where I am and be stop from Rome because we went from historical site seeing to seeing beautiful gardens and castles. Moving away form the bustling city to see the gardens were very breathtaking because it was a new experience of Italy that we had not come across yet. These three gardens were so spectacular seeing the different architecture and nature that were involved to create these pieces.
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Il Giardino dei Tarocchi was something I would never imagine seeing while in Italy. We drove down a long countryside road and ended up in one of the wildest and craziest places I have ever seen. There were many different types of structures that could be found on a Tarot card. The way that the creators mixed the Italian countryside and gardens into this contemporary structure amazes me.
respectful of that.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS‌ A phrase that illustrates Italy and Italian Culture is walk to explore. This is because you have to take it all in.
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Kimberly Knowles Art CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO. IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE. CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS… Experiencing different forms of Italian garden OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS. Slowing down to see the beauty all around you. landscapes showed extravagance in different ways, from subtle mazes and fountains in Caprarola to the symmetry of the Villa Lante. The “monster gardens” were the most impressive, with monsters and men emerging from the bedrock marble itself. It played on a combination of soft natural foliage and solid towering forms, and captivated the mind as well as the eye with a mythic narrative about a journey through purgatory.
Our visit to Il Giardino dei Tarocchi was like going to an amusement park inside someone’s imagination. The colors and whimsical shapes of all the mosaic forms were beautiful and so lively; wandering through them was a great follow up to many days only experiencing art in formal settings. It was an inspiring departure from the classical to the modern, and showed a different outdoor art form than the previous gardens we had seen.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... I expected things to be different; I did not realize how much I would change for the better, learning to take each day slowly and enjoy it sunrise to sunset.
THE TAROT GARDEN
B A R AT T I
Stephanie Lowe In t er ior De sig n BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I OF THE ETRUSCANS. IN ITALIAN CULTURE. WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS... I enjoyed this visit, mainly because we had learned so much about Etruscan Barrow Tombs in our art history courses back home that seeing them up close and actually being able to go inside of one was very interesting. So much emphasis was placed on life after death that these tombs were more significant than their actual habitations during a lifetime. Going to the beach made the trip seem real; that I wasn’t just a tourist is Rome but that I was actually visiting places in Italy that not everybody would have a chance to see.
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Probably one of my favorite stops during the week, I really liked Bolgheri and the winery because I learned how to appreciate the pairing of food and wine rather than just eating and drinking as fast as possible. When you slow down to really taste everything and understand what you’re eating and why, it becomes that much more significant. In addition, hearing about where each type of grape grows and why based on season and weather makes learning about the process interesting.
When I was forced to learn how to live on my own without the support of parents or family. I had to be smart about choices and act according to instinct rather than curiosity.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED MY EXPECTATIONS ABOUT ITALY WAS.... Seeing that everybody wants to make you feel welcome and at home in their country, and a lot of people will go out of their way to make things easier for you, which made the transition a lot easier.
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Amanda Mersereau Int er i o r D e sig n CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO. giant floats! Some of them were so intricate and the SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY political and ironic stories and messages behind them EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE. Caprarola was such a small little hilltop village but it were powerful and funny. I wish I could attend one ABOUT ITALY WAS... was so beautiful! The octagonal palace at the top was particularly extraordinary. The history behind every room and wing of the palace was incredible and the garden was gorgeous. I enjoyed being in this small town after being in the large city of Rome, it really showed two different sides of Italy in the same day.
of the carnivals myself to fully appreciate the art the way it is meant to be shown.
The architecture! Learning about Italian architecture and then seeing it in person really allowed me to appreciate the quality of each amazing structure.
FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL BECAUSE...
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN I was exposed to so much about Italian culture and traditions before even arriving in Florence, which LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME. Before coming to Italy, I didn’t know they had their own carnival, and it was so interesting to learn about the festival and the extensive process behind the
made me feel more prepared and educated about my new home.
CAPRAROLA
CAPRAROLA
Andrea Mountford Communic a t ion BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I OF THE ETRUSCANS. IN ITALIAN CULTURE. WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS... Standing in a grave bed in the middle of an ancient tomb was surprisingly calming and reflective, of course that was after I got over the fact that I was standing in a grave bed in the middle of an ancient tomb… with spiders. The Etruscans’ architectural abilities were incredible with the tools and supplies available for their time, although I feel bad belittling these people based on their era, I wouldn’t know how to begin building those tombs in current day. I was fascinated with the effort they put into burial sites, shown by their longevity, and not their homes, which no longer stood.
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Wine is seen as an art form here in Italy, which is a new concept for me because it is not treated with the same respect in America. The care in which the owner talked about each grape, and how closely the vineyard has to be monitored showed how much passion is put in every bottle. Tasting it seemed like even more of a process than making it. I never knew how many steps went into a simple sip. The love they have for a glass of wine at dinner makes you want to be a part of the culture, to take in with such interest every detail and to fully appreciate what effort has been exerted for your dining pleasure.
Being unsure and lost and being okay with it. Many times I wasn’t sure if what I was doing, which would be seen as polite in my county, might be taken as rude here. Near the end of the trip I realized those cultural differences were always going to be there, I just had to learn to be okay with it.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... Their love of food. It is a strong standing stereotype that Italians are quite the foodies, but after my first 3 hour meal I realized how true it really is.
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Courtney Mussell Int er i o r D e sig n BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE IN ITALIAN CULTURE. LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME. SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK In Bolgheri, we were able to see the whole idea of Being guided through all of the history was all so HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL “farm to table” so clearly. Visiting the vineyard and incredible, but in Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi it BECAUSE… being walked through the process of making delicious wine, allowed us to see all of the work that goes into creating delicious, authentic Italian wine. Tenuta Di Vaira also served us beautiful appetizers included different meats, cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, spreads, and of course, wine. Learning how to taste wine made us all feel very Italian.
was refreshing to be able to explore on our own; then again, spending time at the beach with great friends is a perfect way to spend any day. I felt as if I was able to absorb Italian culture on my own for the first time. Visiting carnival pieces and the marble quarry were unforgettable experiences.
I knew so little before arriving in Italy and immersing oneself in the culture and language is the best way to start developing your sense of surroundings in a new place.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... Recognizing that I would eventually feel at home here, which had been a concern before our orientation week.
FRESH FRUIT IN BOLGHERI
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Sarah Narburgh In t er ior De sig n IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY BARATTI AND POPULONIA. IN THE FOOTSTEPS FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION OF THE ETRUSCANS. SEMESTER. HOW THE TRAVEL WEEK HELPED The archaeological park of Baratti and Populonia ME FEEL LIKE AN ITALIAN. OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS. As we approached Il Giardino dei Tarocchi, I was instantly overwhelmed by all of the vibrant colors and eye-catching materials. The artist of this sculpture garden, Niki de Saint Phalle, certainly succeeded at portraying tarot cards because I felt mentally and spiritually connected to it. I suddenly felt like a young child again as I leaped from one sculpture to another in complete amazement. I loved how the imaginative garden contrasted with the traditional views of the vast Tuscan landscape.
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opened my eyes to the life of the Etruscans. As we entered the small tomb, I felt like I had traveled back in time. The construction appeared effortless and the presence of natural light was incredible. At one point I stood in an ancient funerary bath, which was made of weathered stone. Although some of my classmates were uncomfortable with this, I felt like I was truly experiencing Etruscan history.
I felt significantly more prepared to live in Florence compared to my roommates that didn’t have an orientation week. I was adjusted to using a map (not a GPS), using Italian phrases, and walking everywhere.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... The moments our orientation leaders and bus driver encouraged us to learn Italian words. In Italy they have the patience to teach foreigners their native language.
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Hannah Picariello In t e r i o r D e sig n CAPRAROLA, VILLA LANTE AND BOMARZO. sculptures but I liked the way each of them had a SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY story and how the whole park had a story to it. ARCHITECTURE COMBINED WITH NATURE. EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... When I used to think of Italy before I came here places like Caprarola were what I imagined it to be like, quiet A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I When coming to Italy, I expected to encounter great rustic little towns. When we went to the palace and WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS… food and a slower paced lifestyle. The food was better gardens at Caprarola it was amazing, the gardens are breathtaking and everything about them was perfect. When we visited Villa Lante, the amazement continued. Each garden is unique and beautiful in its own way. Visiting the gardens was my favorite part of the first week. There is something so serene and peaceful about them. Bomarzo was a completely different garden than the first two that we visited, it was definitely interesting to see all of the big stone
I would call this entire journey a personal growth experience. I can’t really name one defining moment, but I notice so many changes in myself that are so important. Every day I feel more confident in myself and this experience, I am becoming more independent each day and learning so many things about myself. I will forever be grateful for this opportunity.
than I expected. The lifestyle here is anything but slow; people are swarming the streets at all hours of the day and walk with a purpose. Italians definitely take time to appreciate things more but their lifestyle is pretty modern.
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Sydney Ridder Ho s pi t ali t y Man a gemen t ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY. street signs all look the same, and personal space is pairings allowed us to understand the real meaning nonexistent. I didn’t know where to find the nearest of food and wine together. The combination of the REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME. A city older than time itself filled with art, religion, history, evolution and reform. Rome is the capital of Italy and known for its eternal beauty. Inside its walls holds some of the greatest masterpieces to ever been seen to this world. The Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Castel Sant’Angelo, Bridge of Angels and The Vatican City are some of the beauties this city holds. When first entering Rome, I was hit with an overwhelming feeling of excitement and this sensation of being in a city I have grown up learning about. Being an American in Rome was like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Things are in different languages,
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Starbucks nor how to order a panino, but that didn’t mean that the citizens of Rome weren’t willing to help. Italians would help me find my way, explain the ways of their lives, and show me that it doesn’t matter what language you speak as long as you try.
small meals with wine in between bites allowed for us to experience more flavors. We were able to taste all the flavors of the meals and the wine. This taught us that Italians drink wine with meals to enjoy more flavors and the culture.
BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I IN ITALIAN CULTURE. WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS... Traveling into the Prove of Livorno, we entered Bolgheri. A town known for its food and amazing wine. At the vineyard of Tenuta DiVaira, we experienced traditional wine making and tasting, along with traditional pairings. These food and wine
Being able to travel a week early to learn about the culture of Italian society if only a little. It was amazing to be able to see so many different parts of Italian culture in a short amount of time to further my understanding on this country.
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Laura Varjabedian In t e r i o r D e sig n ROME, 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY. Rome was setting into my mind as an enriching and A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE I WILL interesting realization. REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME. FOREVER REMEMBER WAS... Rome, a vast and intriguing city of history, art, architecture, and society, immediately had me in awe upon arrival. I was taken aback by the beauty and complexity in the buildings simply passing them on the street, not to mention the sites that we toured. So much of this city I have only read and learned about, that seeing immense and powerful structures such as the Coliseum, Pantheon, and history enriched areas like St. Peter’s Square left me completely speechless. An understanding of ancient Roman history really began to give me an appreciation for the country of Italy, and I had only visited the one city so far. The power of the history and the evolution of society in
VIAREGGIO AND FORTE DEI MARMI. ITALIAN LIFESTYLE DURING LEISURE TIME. The description of the Cittadella del Carnevale and viewing of the celebration throughout the years was rich in artistic talent and tradition. The essence and dedication put into the festival is similar to events we have in America and I found it extremely neat to learn the political statements and motives of the entries! Enjoying the leisure and lifestyle by the water, as well as the historic tradition of beach life in Forte dei Marmi and the Tuscan region was truly a treat.
Losing myself in the beauty and religious power of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican. I was moved beyond words.
ONE SENTENCE/PHRASE THAT IN MY OPINION ILLUSTRATES ITALY AND ITALIAN CULTURE IS... That it is built around the relationships of the society and their ancestral connection to Italian history and its traditions.
ITALIAN AT THE BEACH
SKETCH BY COURTNEY WILSON
Courtney Wilson Art ROME 3000 YEARS OF ART AND HISTORY. IL GIARDINO DEI TAROCCHI. A CONTEMPORARY FLORENCE: MY NEW HOME FOR THE REFLECTIONS OF AN AMERICAN IN ROME: CREATION OF IMAGINATION IN THE TRADITION SEMESTER. THE PREPARATORY TRAVEL WEEK Rome is an ancient city filled with architecture, OF THE ITALIAN GARDENS. HELPED ME FEEL LIKE A FLORENTINE LOCAL breathtaking art and amazing history. Being the The Tarot Garden was the most unique garden of BECAUSE... first stop of our travel week I was overwhelmed and wonderstruck by Rome. We visited places that I have always dreamed of seeing. The Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica was my favorite because of the fine architecture, Michelangelo’s Pieta being my first piece of famous art work to see, and it had such a religious meaning to me.
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the gardens we visited. I enjoyed the contemporary stylized approach to the place. The glass mosaic sculptures were innovative and interactive. I found it the easiest to explore freely and get lost within a more creative individual imagination. This garden is a creation of imagination amongst a history of structured Italian Gardens. There is no exact pathway to follow as there is no start and end to the garden. It is an exploration of the individual’s journey.
I was able to become aware of the different cultural aspects of art, food and wine. I was able to understand the history and why Italians value it.
SOMETHING THAT CHANGED OR AFFIRMED MY EXPECTATIONS/PERSPECTIVE ABOUT ITALY WAS... Witnessing everyday Italians living a simple lifestyle appreciated through togetherness, family and food.
endicott COLLEGE
Laura Wunsch In t e r i o r D e sig n BOLGHERI. THE MEANING OF FOOD AND WINE this visit in Bolgheri, I plan on bringing the value of made me realize that as a group we all walk following food and wine in the Italian Culture back to the United what we are told, but don’t fully expose ourselves to IN ITALIAN CULTURE The wine tasting in Bolgheri was one of my favorite things that the group did throughout the week. Learning everything that goes into one bottle of wine and how important certain steps are when making wine made me appreciate the wine so much more. Also, the food that was paired with the wine was amazing and made me notice how different wines pair with certain foods better than others. Being in Bolgheri and learning all that we did showed me how much more the Italian Culture appreciates their food. In America, food is rushed and wine is drunk with no gratitude. After being lucky enough to experience
States with me and sharing it with everyone so they realize how important the appreciation is.
A PERSONAL GROWTH EXPERIENCE THAT I WILL FOREVER REMEMBER WAS... When a little Italian lady approached us in Caprarola speaking nothing but Italian. None of us knew what she was saying or how to reply. Someone who spoke a little English tried to help us to understand, but the only thing any of us really got out of it was that she told us to stop being so timid and shy. When I understood what she said, it immediately
the Italian Culture. Ever since this moment, I have tried to be apart as much as I can and discover as much of the culture as possible while I am in Italy. There’s so much to see and learn in every part of Italy and time shouldn’t be wasted being shy or questioning. The lady made me realize how important it is to immerse yourself into the surroundings if you want to learn and understand the culture in the fullest and from that point on, that is what I did.
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endicott fall 2014
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college Cultural Intro Pre-Semester Week August 20 th - August 27 th FALL 2014
CREDITS Photo Credit: Endicott Students Fall 2014 - Profile pics by Silvia Mancini Production Coordinator: M. Olimpia Bozza
Endicott Endi co tt Fall Fal l 201 4 Cla 2014 C lass ss : Rebecca Bohls Danielle Boucher Rebekah Capece Kaitlin Desbiens Haley DiPietro Christine Donohoe Melissa Dube Lauren Ecker Mallory Farley Teagan Fortune Brianna Fullam Lauren Gallagher Chelsea Glynn Sabina Grasso Kellie Kerrigan Kimberly Knowles Stephanie Lowe Amanda Mersereau Andrea Mountford Courtney Mussell Sarah Narburgh Johannah Picariello Sydney Ridder Laura Varjabedian Courtney Wilson Laura Wunsch