Italy’s Campania Region
Embark on a journey to the enchanting region of Sorrento, Capri and Pompeii, where history, natural beauty and culinary delights intertwine to create an unforgettable cultural experience with breathtaking views from sea and land.
Our adventure begins in Sorrento, a picturesque town perched atop cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples. We will stroll through narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, citrus groves, and artisan shops. We will then travel by boat to the island of Capri, a gem of the Mediterranean renowned for its remarkable coastline and clear blue waters as we venture inland to walk through villages for breathtaking views and opportunities to meet residents and artisans. Throughout our stay in the region, we will visit ancient landmarks and gardens, view the Blue Grotto by rowboat, experience culinary delights and participate in a cooking class.
Finally we will hike through Vesuvius National Park to learn about the past and recent history of the volcano prior to our journey to the ancient city of Pompeii frozen in time (79 AD.) There we will walk in the footsteps of the ancient Romans through preserved streets, temples, and villas before departing for Boston.
Trip Dates: March 9-16
Trip Leader: Karen Bernanke
Essential Questions
- What is the historical significance of Sorrento, Capri and Pompeii and what efforts are being made to preserve the culture and traditions?
- How are the agricultural products unique to the region, such as lemons, olives, and citrus fruits, integrated into the local cuisine to preserve tradition and promote sustainability?
- How has the unique geography and marine ecosystem of the coastline influenced its cultural, economic, and environmental dynamics throughout history?
- What architectural discoveries have been made in Pompeii and what do they reveal about daily life in ancient Rome?