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Edmond Cartagena

Ciao, studenti di UT San Antonio! 

The UT San Antonio’s College of Liberal and Fine Arts’ semester in Urbino, Italy is off to a great start. The homely feel of this city makes it hard to believe that only one week has passed. From Rome-ing through the ancient streets of Urbino to strolling down the coastline of the Adriatic Sea in Pesaro, there has been no such thing as a dull moment. Adventure waits around every corner in these Italian cities. 

During this semester in Urbino, COLFA is studying language and linguistics while exploring the broad landscape and rolling hills. Dissecting languages such as Latin, Italian, Sanskrit and English has enhanced the studies of the beloved European peninsula. Every piece of history here holds plentiful meaning thanks to the language lessons taught by Ph.D Bridget Drinka. The small group of UT San Antonio classmates are continuously attempting to translate Latin inscriptions scattered throughout this beautiful city — when not enjoying locally made cappuccinos or pizzas, that is. 

Wandering past the city walls of Urbino feels equivalent to stepping back in time. The cobblestone roads and the aged brick buildings call out to explorers and scholars alike. Small cafes run by kind Italianos are plentiful, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in such a beautiful culture based around community and friendliness. 

Deep in the city center lies the Ducal Palace. This grand building formerly housed Federico da Montefeltro — the famed warrior and prince who ruled Urbino in the mid 1400s. Walking through the grand hallways of Montefeltro’s distinguished palace felt cinematic. In another part of the city, Rafaello Sanzio’s childhood home sits quietly. The famous artist’s home is now a museum that inspires creative minds to continue following their passions.

The group’s trip to Pesaro provided further insight into Italy’s importance of religion, emphasizing aspects of Catholic-influenced art that exists plentifully in Urbino. Although it is easy to adore the fancy stores in Pesaro’s shopping district, a place more adorant in this lovely coastal city is the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta. This cathedral was created with masterful architecture and houses timeless art, such as sculptures and a detailed early Christian fresco. Architects have made it possible to see below the modern floor of the cathedral with glass platforms, exposing different eras of tile mosaics that lie beneath the cathedral. 

There is still much to see in the established country of Italy. A surprise waits around every cobblestone-lined path, and new discoveries are ecstatically awaiting to be shared with fellow students back home at UT San Antonio. 

Until next time, 

Buongiorno studentessi!