Sicily
Field Workshop
12 Days
- Explore ancient Greek cities and Roman villas
- Climb the frozen lava flows of legendary Mount Etna
- Cool off with a refreshing swim in the turquoise Mediterranean
- Witness vivid eruptions on the volcanic island of Stromboli
Nat Geo Expert
Photographer Dave Yoder will join this field workshop.
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How To Apply
• About the Application Process
• Apply Now
• Call or Email Us
Itinerary — 12 Days
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is home to a fascinating volcanic landscape and some of the best-preserved Greek and Roman archaeological sites in the world. A familiar landmark from Greek mythology, Mount Etna still presides over the historic city of Taormina in the east, while to the north the tiny volcanic island of Stromboli arises from the blue Mediterranean to erupt regularly in fantastic displays of magma and ash. Explore mythical, vibrant Sicily through an On Assignment focus of your choice.
Perched on a cliff in view of Mount Etna and high above the sparkling Ionian Sea, Taormina—our base in Sicily—has captivated visitors since ancient times. First settled by Iberian tribesmen, this part of Sicily was occupied in turn by some of the greatest empires of the classical world. Explore winding medieval streets and passages with your On Assignment group and sample delicious local fare at restaurants, cafés, and ice cream bars. Visit the impressive third-century Greek theater, built on a promontory overlooking the sea, and take in a concert or a play on its historic stage. Spend time each day developing your On Assignment project with the guidance of our trip leaders and National Geographic expert. From our base in Taormina, head out on excursions to explore the island. Visit nearby Naxos, considered Sicily's oldest Greek city, founded by the Chalcidians as Sicily's first Greek colony in 735 B.C. Climb hardened lava flows to the crater of steaming Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano, and linger until dusk to marvel at the glowing magma. Cool off in crystalline Mediterranean waters at a nearby beach.
Travel to Villa Romana del Casale, a luxurious Roman house renowned throughout the world for its elaborate floor mosaics. Relive the ancient past as you wander through Greek temples and theaters set on hillsides overlooking the sea. Explore fortified mountaintop villages and hike along the rocky coast to bathe in the limpid waters of the Mediterranean.
Our Sicilian sojourn concludes with a two-day journey to the little Aeolian island of Stromboli, which rises up out of the sea in a sheer volcanic cone. Explore whitewashed fishing villages and dramatic black-sand beaches. Climb a rugged mountainside at dusk to witness the volcano's display of erupting lava and ash. We'll gather here for final On Assignment presentations before flying home from Palermo.
Accommodations
The program is based in Taormina and concludes with a two-day excursion to the island of Stromboli. Students stay in small, family-run inns in Taormina and in Stromboli.Apply now for this program or call us for more information at 877-877-8759.
