At the start of the school holidays, twenty three Italian and Classics students from year 9 to year 12 set off for the Bay of Naples to experience Italian culture and to visit the region’s world renowned archaeological wonders, listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The students learned a great deal about ancient Roman history and culture on their guided tours (including a virtual reality headset experience) at some of the world’s most engrossing archaeological sites: Pompeii, Herculaneum and Villa Oplontis. They also visited the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, where the most interesting finds from Pompeii and Herculaneum are on display. A walk through Solfatara to experience the bubbling mud and bursts of steam from a volcanic outlet was also memorable!

The students also enjoyed fantastic outings, such as spending a day on the idyllic island of Capri, a popular destination for the rich and famous, but sadly without any celebrity sightings. In Sorrento the group explored la dolce vita and indulged in some souvenir shopping, from the many fine old shops selling ceramics, lacework, marquetry and leather items.

This successful trip helped students to enhance their knowledge with innumerable remarkable facts; created opportunities for cross-year friendships, and gave everyone an appreciation for Italian culture. Grazie Italia!