Penn Summer Abroad
Locales
Penn-in-Florence
Main | Description | Curriculum
"Fun and interesting classes taught not only in the classroom, but also in the city."
Penn-in-Florence, established in 1979, is designed for students interested in Italian language, literature, civilization and art history. It is considered by Italianists to be the top such program sponsored by any North American institution. Florence is home to some of the greatest Renaissance art and is the ideal starting point for an exploration of Tuscany and Italy. The program takes full advantage of this unique location, offering 2 courses that explore the history of Florence and the Medici dynasty and examine Florentine Renaissance art first-hand in the city’s museums, churches, palaces and gardens. The curriculum consists additionally of an introductory course, an intensive intermediate-level course, and an advanced course in Italian. The program also arranges cultural activities around Florence.
Classes meet Monday through Thursday, leaving long weekends free for travel. The program organizes a weekend trip to Venice, as well as an excursion to Siena to experience the Palio horserace, and a day-trip to Assisi.
Students should submit their application early, since requests for enrollment are accommodated in the order they have been received and classes are limited in size to maximize effective participation.