Exploring Ancient Art: JCU's MA in Art History Study Trip to Greece
Every year, John Cabot University students enrolled in the MA in Art History program have the opportunity to delve into Greek and Bronze Age cultural heritage, through a study trip to Greece during Spring break.
This study trip allows students to witness ancient art in its original context. As explained by Art History Professor Crispin Corrado, the trip begins in Crete, where students explore the Minoan palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. From there, they move to the island of Santorini to learn more about the Bronze Age site of Akrotiri and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. The journey culminates in Athens, with a visit to examples of Minoan and Mycenaean wall paintings housed in the National Archaeological Museum.
The study trip to Greece is part of Professor Corrado’s course “Ancient Roman and Mediterranean Mural Painting,” which is designed to provide students with a comprehensive investigation of ancient wall paintings in Rome, Italy, and Greece. Covering the Greeks, Etruscans, Romans, and the Bronze Age civilizations of the Aegean area, this course is a captivating exploration of art, history, and culture.
Throughout the semester, students also embark on site visits led by Professor Corrado to archaeological areas and museums across the city of Rome, the Bay of Naples, and Tarquinia in the Lazio region, bringing to life the lessons learned in the classroom.
“John Cabot University’s students are physically in the best place in the world to study ancient fresco painting in the Mediterranean area, as they are able to visit all of the most incredible examples and see them firsthand, many in their original context. It is absolutely amazing, and I think that is what makes the course so exciting, and such a great opportunity for everyone,” said Professor Corrado.
The study trip to Greece is more than just an academic excursion—it’s a transformative journey that fosters a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of ancient art and its significance in shaping human history and culture.
(Giorgia Tamburi)
