Fascinating Florence – Art, History, Style And Literary Achievements
The British Institute of Florence is celebrating the historic cultural experiences of the Anglo-Americans with the introduction of two special one day educational programmes. Designed for visitors looking for a novel holiday experience and a way to develop a more in-depth understanding of the city, the courses offer the chance to explore the wealth of Victorian and Edwardian history, culture and style that could easily remain hidden in its streets, gardens, museums and surrounding landscapes.
In the first programmes of their kind to be delivered by The British Institute of Florence, attendees can live and breathe the learning experience by means of walks through the city, visits to various landmarks with culinary delicacies offered along the way. To ensure an unhurried and relaxed group based experience, the courses are limited to 15 places.
The programmes will run on the 23rd and 24th May 2012 and cover two different periods in the city’s history, the first being about The Victorians – Literary Landscapes, followed by The Edwardians – Culture and Style.
The Victorians – Literary Landscapes – From May 2012
Discover the world of the Victorians in Florence. The programme allows for a visit to the home of English poets Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning. There is the opportunity to explore the styles and influences still visible today behind the doors of Florentine buildings with a visit to a private palace. Guests will then have the chance to recharge and enjoy both lunch and the spectacular views from the Torre di Bellosguardo. The day concludes with a tour of the English Cemetery and a carriage ride through the old city. Runs from 23rd May 9am-5pm, €200
The Edwardians – Culture and Style From May 2012
Explore a time of culture and style and the unique role of the Anglo-Florentine collectors. Attendees will have the chance to share the passions of two Edwardian collectors, Herbert Horne and Arthur Acton with a tour of the Horne Museum. Lunch will be enjoyed in style at a private members club founded in the 1860. The afternoon will be spent visiting the shopping street of Via Tornabuoni and touring the 15th century Villa La Pietra taking in the recently restored gardens. Run from24th May 2012, €200 and both courses can be booked for a fee of €350.
Comment From The Director of The British Institute of Florence
Sara Milne, Director of the British Institute of Florence, said “It is not by chance that Florence is such a popular destination with British tourists. It is a vibrant city with unique links between our historical and cultural heritages, but many visitors only ever manage to scratch the surface in a short stay, not fully discovering the depth of Florentine experiences on offer.
“The British Institute of Florence has introduced these courses to help passionate visitors engage their minds, and so that our insider knowledge – built up from our almost hundred year presence here – gives them a more in-depth understanding of the city. We believe that our programmes will ensure people don’t just visit – they will live and breathe Florence – resulting in a more fulfilling holiday experience.”
For more information visit: www.britishinstitute.it