Educational Travel Programs

Calder Classics has been running successful educational programs in Europe since 2012. This summer, 2021, conflicting indicators on COVID and current government restrictions again complicate planning for travel to Italy. Nothing is more important than the health and safety of our teachers and students and our travel programs are incompatible with social distancing. It now appears current travel restrictions will not be lifted with sufficient lead time to arrange critical program elements. Therefore with deep regret we again cancel our July programs in Florence and Rome. A decision on our August program in Tuscany will be made at a later date, subject to conditions permitting safe travel. To follow changes in travel restrictions between the US and Italy refer to the US Embassy & Consulates in Italy COVID-19 Information site. If you are planning to travel from another country, please check with your national embassy in Italy.

An exhaustive, real-time view of all things COVID in Italy is available on this webpage produced by Il Sole 24 Ore .

And this Italian government tool determines how current Italian travel restrictions apply to you.

Reading Latin in Rome - 2021

In the urbs aeterna high school students read, translate and discuss Latin literature in an interactive “salon” style environment. Latin readings include such influential Roman authors as Cicero, Livy, Vergil, Ovid and Tacitus, including material likely to be found on the Latin SAT II. Throughout the course, we engage with great art, architecture, and sculpture related to, or inspired by, the literature we have read.

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Reading Latin in Florence - 2021

A unique summer learning experience for high school students to advance their expertise in reading Latin. Here, in the birthplace of the Renaissance, we make the Classics come alive through an interplay of literature, art history and Italian Culture.

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Introduction to Ancient Greek in Florence - 2021

Here, in the birthplace of Renaissance humanism where the study of ancient Greek flourished, students spend their days learning Greek grammar and vocabulary and reading the great authors of Greek literature in translation.

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Journeys to the Underworld: Aeneid 6 and Odyssey 11 - 2021

A unique summer experience in Tuscany for advanced students of Greek and/or Latin. In a stunning villa surrounded by Etruscan countryside where Greek and Roman remnants abound, students read ancient texts exploring underworld narratives and prophecies: Latin students read Aeneid 6, while Greek students read Odyssey 11.

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Creative Writing in Florence - 2021

Classical myths have long inspired poetry, prose, tragedy, comedy, music, dance and the visual arts. Students are invited to explore the classical foundation stories and their influence on our culture. Through daily writing workshops, readings of ancient and modern literature, and exploration of Florence students are sure to hear the muses and return home with manuscripts of their own modern myths!

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Travel Program Testimonials

"I want to thank you for teaching me so much Latin and offering exposure to more difficult texts. I now feel more prepared for next year all thanks to this program." Erin, student

”I cannot stress enough what a magical and valuable time I had at Calder; the instructors are thrilling teachers, the students excel and the chaperones are inspiring; plus, everyone is really fun! Translating the Aeneid Book 6, De Rerum Natura, the Satyricon, and other esteemed texts, visiting Siena and Fiesole, and touring almost every Florentine Museum, brought tears of awe to my eyes daily on the Florence Program.” Maude G., student

"Calder Classics is an amazing experience that greatly improved my translation skills and added to the wonder of the city of Florence. Exploring the city and seeing some of the most beautiful art that exists was the highlight of my summer, especially because it was with such a great group of people. Cindy is fantastic, and I would recommend the program to all." - Anson, student

"It wasn’t until the Calder Classics Latin Program in Florence that I realized that Classics is the best way for an artist to ground his interests in academics. Art, culture, and the origin of the Romance languages come together in one program that is by far the only summer course I would consider returning to again. I recommend Calder Classics for those who want to challenge their intellect and immerse themselves in new experiences." - Matthew, student

"Calder Classics provides a first class opportunity for high school students to learn Latin and Art History from exceptional teachers. The program does a particularly wonderful job incorporating the treasures of Florence and Tuscany into the curriculum." - Debbie and Richard , parents

"I am a firm believer that happy kids love to learn, especially when they are in an environment surrounded by great educators and other enthusiastic students. My daughter loved your program. The photos and updates you sent home were priceless and she enjoyed the small intimate group. These kids will be friends for a long time." - Jojo, parent