Geography and Classics trip to Italy: History, Culture, and Carbs Galore!
6 November 2024 - Academic
Our adventure began with a bleary-eyed group of LIV and UIV pupils boarding a 6:00am flight to Naples. We arrived in sunny Italy just in time for some local pizza, which pupils said definitely made the early start worthwhile! With slices of heaven in hand, we fuelled up for our first excursion: the Naples Underground City. As we descended into this labyrinth of ancient tunnels, we discovered the maze of archaeological treasure troves hidden under the city. The day wrapped up at the Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important relics of the ancient world.
On the second day, we boarded a boat for a private tour of Capri. Cruising around this famous island, we soaked in views of turquoise water, towering cliffs, and even stopped by the infamous Blue Grotto.
The next day, we explored a range of ruins and volcanic threats, starting with Pompeii. As we wandered through the remarkably well-preserved streets of this ancient Roman city, it felt like stepping back in time. Our guide brought the city to life, reminding us of the eerie tragedy that befell the residents when Mount Vesuvius erupted. We then climbed the legendary volcano itself. Peering into the crater and seeing steam rise was both awe-inspiring and unsettling — suddenly our risk assessment forms made a lot of sense! The evening then took a delicious turn as we learned the art of pizza-making.
Day four was an Italian postcard brought to life. We toured the Amalfi Coast, winding through scenic roads with impossibly beautiful cliffs plunging into the sea. We soon realised that driving on these roads was a feat as heroic as anything we’d seen in Pompeii. After a photo opportunity (or 20) we headed to Paestum, where ancient Greek temples made their debut on our trip itinerary. Yes, these were real Greek temples on Italian soil, and they gave everyone’s phone gallery the touch of classical architecture we didn’t know we needed.
On our final day, it was time to indulge in yet another Italian specialty: gelato. A local expert walked us through the art of gelato-making (taste-testing was encouraged). With a newfound appreciation for the difference between gelato and ‘plain old ice cream’, we set off for Herculaneum. This ancient city, also preserved by Vesuvius’ fury, offered an intimate look at Roman life and served as a poignant close to our tour of history’s greatest hits.
As our coach took us back to the airport for the flight home, the group buzzed with memories of ancient ruins, archaeological marvels, and, extraordinary Italian cuisine. We touched down back home by 11:00pm, tired but grateful for a week where history came alive – and where we ate our weight in pizza, pasta, and gelato!
Until next time, Italy! Or as we like to say now, Arrivederci!
Mr Simon Bannister
Head of Geography
Keep up to date with further news from Wycombe Abbey on our social channels.