Submitted by Dana Wilkins on the 2022 winter session program in Italy sponsored by the Department of Linguistics and Cognitive Science…
Our last week in Italy was packed with activity. Monday, we took an excursion along the Amalfi Coast, stopping at picturesque outlooks and to explore the town. While the drive was certainly beautiful, it is not one I would drive myself as there were numerous switchbacks and sharp turns around the cliff’s edge. In fact, only certified Italian drivers are allowed to traverse these roads.
Wednesday marked our last day in Sorrento. We took a hike to visit some ancient Roman ruins and take in the views of the city below, one last time.
View from the Marina in Amalfi
Then on Thursday, we left for Rome. We had our third cooking class of the program when we arrived in which we learned to make ravioli and biscotti. I am still amazed by the Mediterranean diet which uses very simple ingredients yet produces such delicious food. For example, the pasta dough required only egg and flour.
Friday, we toured Imperial Rome, visiting the Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill. I’m still stunned by the Roman ruins – that such incredible and massive structures were built so long ago, but remain today. In the afternoon, we toured the Borghese Museum, taking in the incredible art and sculptures produced by famous Italian artists. Something that struck me about the Colosseum was how many times it has been repurposed. What was originally an arena, later became at various points in history, a place of worship, a castle, and housing for livestock. Over the years, the marble that decorated the walls and seats had also been slowly stripped away and repurposed in other locations. I can’t imagine how stunning it would have been to see its original construction, as it’s still so impressive today.
The snowstorm that hit the Northeastern United States caused our flight to be delayed, providing one more day to explore the city of Rome. One incredible aspect of Rome is that you can just wander and every other block you will come across something stunning, whether it be ancient Roman ruins converted into a sanctuary for stray cats, or the incredible view of the Trevi Fountain, or a historic church with intricate paintings and carvings adorning every surface. We even eventually wandered all the way over to St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.
Unfortunately, Sunday meant it was time to say good-bye and make our way to the airport. Reflecting back on the program, it seems to have happened so fast, but it was truly an incredible and unique experience to explore the food, culture, history, and the use of gesture in Italy.
