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Rome & Florence

Oct 22-30, 2025

9 days | Italy | alumni UBC Travel Club

Follow in the footsteps of Michelangelo from his arrival in Rome where he created the Rome Pietà at the age of just 24, through his stormy partnership with Pope Julius II which resulted in the Sistine Chapel, his work in Florence, and his return to Rome as the chief architect of the spectacular dome of St. Peter’s Basilica.

This journey will immerse you in the world of one of the greatest artists of the Renaissance, offering perspective on his profound impact on art and architecture. In Rome, we will marvel at the grandeur of the Sistine Chapel and the sublime "Pietà," a masterpiece of emotion and craftsmanship. In Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, Michelangelo's legacy is ever-present. We'll stand in awe before "David," his colossal marble statue that epitomizes the beauty and power of human potential. As we traverse these historic cities, you'll gain insight into Michelangelo's creative genius, his profound influence on Western art, and the enduring legacy he left behind. Prepare to be inspired by the masterpieces that have shaped the course of art history on this unforgettable tour.

Sculpture, architecture, and painting are all part of this art tour with seminars by art historian Justin Newell, guided walks, and visits to major sites. While our focus is on Michelangelo, there is free time to explore the works of other Renaissance masters. Our comfortable central accommodation allows for easy exploration on foot.
 

 
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alumni UBC Travel Club Art, Music & Theatre Cultural Explorations
Tour Cost (per person):
C$6999 including taxes and gratuities
Group Size:
14 - 16 participants

What’s included: Accommodations based on double occupancy; ground transportation in Rome and Florence by private vehicle; train travel between Rome and Florence; all activities and entrance fees; services of English-speaking specialized guides; most meals; gratuities for guides, driver, and included meals; all taxes; services of your Study Leader Justin Newell.

"Justin's lectures were excellent and the art museum tours followed exactly the course content." - UBC Traveller on Paris art tour with Justin
"Justin clearly has a massive amount of knowledge of the subject matter, and can put together a clear PPT presentation, explain things, and takes the time to answer questions and encourage debate." - UBC Traveller on Paris art tour with Justin

Itinerary at a Glance

DayActivity
1Meet in Rome
2Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli, Piazza del Campidoglio
3Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva
4Rome: Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica
5To Florence by train: The Oltre’ Arno
6Casa Buonarroti, the Bargello, San Lorenzo
7The Accademia Gallery and the Opera del Duomo
8Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery
9Depart Florence
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Your Tour Leader

Justin Newell, art historian and artist, has lectured extensively on Western painting, sculpture, and architecture (from 1300 to 1963) at UBC and various Vancouver colleges, as well as leading art history tours to Venice, Florence, Rome, Paris, London, and other art centres of the world, weaving his knowledge of history, art, political events, and famous sights into his presentations. Justin recently taught the course "Venetian Painting: from the Renaissance to the Rococo Period" for UBC Extended Learning.

alumni UBC Travel Club Art, Music & Theatre Cultural Explorations
Tour Cost (per person):
C$6999 including taxes and gratuities
Group Size:
14 - 16 participants

What’s included: Accommodations based on double occupancy; ground transportation in Rome and Florence by private vehicle; train travel between Rome and Florence; all activities and entrance fees; services of English-speaking specialized guides; most meals; gratuities for guides, driver, and included meals; all taxes; services of your Study Leader Justin Newell.

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Rome & Florence

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