Experience an in-depth exploration of Florence, home of the Renaissance and birthplace of one of the greatest writers of all time: Dante Alighieri. Part retreat, part tour, we’ll spend our time visiting the many historic sites, museums, and churches Florence has to offer, while allowing ample time for reflection and relaxation. We’ll see the wonders of Michelangelo, Leonardo, Fra Angelico, Botticelli, and many more, and the trip will use Dante’s Divine Comedy as a lens to understand the city and its rich heritage. All are invited to read excerpts from Dante’s masterpiece before or during the trip. Our Italian experiences also include time in the glorious cities of Siena, Lucca, Pisa, and Perugia and we’ll end our time in Rome—the Eternal City—with stops at the major Roman sites and at the Vatican.

Our home base for the majority of our time will be Sanctuary Firenze in Florence (www.sanctuarybbfirenze.com), the convent guest house of the Suore Oblate located in the heart of the city. Rooms are simple and clean, with serene areas and a beautiful courtyard garden. All beds in the guest house are single beds and a light continental breakfast is served each morning. Most mornings in Florence will include an orientation session with Dr. Holberg to prepare us for the day. In Rome, we will stay at Hotel Lancelot (www.lancelothotel.com), located near the Colosseum.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity!