Inter-Italy Side Quests
With school field trips scheduled for the second half of the semester, our class embraced the freedom of the first half by setting out to explore more of Italy. Studying architecture in Volterra is an education in itself, but stepping beyond the city walls has allowed us to experience the richness, diversity, and regional character that define Italian culture. From medieval hill towns to bustling northern cities, each destination has added a new layer to our understanding of place, history, and design.
Emerson reunited with her childhood friend Leah, a fellow architecture student from Indiana University who is also studying abroad in Florence. The two took a weekend trip to Bologna and Verona, enjoying perfect weather for wandering and reconnecting. In Verona, the Adige River was a magnificent view with the colorful façades and historic streetscapes framing the perfect view. The city felt alive, especially with Olympic posters lining the streets, an inspiring reminder of a country united in celebration and pride.
Ashley’s family visited her in Volterra and traveled together to Milan. There, they immersed themselves in the city’s landmarks, with the highlight being the Duomo di Milano illuminated at night. The cathedral’s intricate Gothic façade and astonishing rooftop access left a lasting impression. Its structural ingenuity and enduring performance over centuries continue to fascinate architects and visitors alike. They were also fortunate enough to watch the Canada vs. France men’s Olympic hockey game, an unforgettable once in a lifetime experience abroad.
Abbey also traveled to Milan to visit family, spending time in residential neighborhoods and embracing the rhythms of daily Milanese life. She sampled traditional dishes, including risotto alla Milanese, rich with saffron. While exploring the city center, she visited the Duomo di Milano, the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Cimitero Monumentale, and her favourite, the Olympic flame displayed within the Arco della Pace.
Mario, Matt, Stephanie, and Brianna boarded a train to Genoa, a coastal city known for its dramatic meeting of architecture and sea. The colorful buildings lining the coastline offered spectacular views, especially at sunset. The group enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere at dinner and browsing local shops in the evening. A standout architectural moment was Piazza De Ferrari, where the monumental fountain anchors the urban community and serves as a lively gathering space.
Abbey, Mario, and Stephanie also ventured to Venice, though not for nearly long enough, a city unlike anywhere else in the world. Its vibrant energy blends seamlessly with centuries of history as canals carve pathways through the city instead of roads. The pastel-toned buildings and intricate network of bridges create an unforgettable urban landscape. They rode the vaporetto along the Grand Canal, indulged in fresh seafood, and admired iconic bridges like the Ponte di Rialto r Ponte degli Scalzi, reflecting on the city’s remarkable evolution over time.
As a class, we are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience these places firsthand. The ability to travel across the country by a simple train ride still feels surreal to us as North Americans, where such accessibility is rare. With each trip, we grow more confident navigating the rail system, so a heartfelt thank you to Trenitalia for carrying us across Italy. These journeys are shaping not only our education as architecture students but also our perspective on culture, connection, and the beauty of thoughtful design.
Until next time,
The Volterra Group