Taking a midterm break from the hub of London, our students have been spending their week in Sicily, Italy as part of an integrated academic workshop.
Through a comparative approach they’ve been able to explore the rich cultural diversity and historical importance contrasted through two distinctly different places: the modern metropolis of London and the ancient metropolis of Siracusa.
Day 1:
Students explore the concept of time as ‘change’ and learn the deep roots of the city.
Located on the southeastern edge of the island of Sicily, Siracusa was founded in the 8th century BC by the Greeks. Due to its strategic location in the Mediterranean, linking east to west, it became one of the most powerful cities in the ancient world.
Since the time of Ancient Greece it has been inhabited and influenced by Romans, Byzantines, and Normans. These cultural influences can still be seen today through the food, architecture, and traditions of the region.
Day 2:
The second day shifted focus to modernity and the complex topic of migration in the Mediterranean. Students met with leaders of CIAO (Center for Integration, Aid and Organization), a non-profit working to support incoming migrants and refugees by helping to facilitate integration into Italian society. Drawing comparisons to media narratives and policy discussions in both the US & UK, students were able to understand a local perspective, working from the front lines of the issue.
Day 3:
From migration to organized crime. Students were introduced to the layered history of the mafia’s place in Italy’s modern state. Going beyond media representation, students were exposed to the social, economic, and political climate that enabled its growth, as well as the grassroots powerful anti-mafia movements led in part by local journalists.
The day included a powerful visit to Libera Terra, a property that was confiscated from the mafia by the state and has since been re-purposed by the anti-mafia association, Libera, into an organic farm employing locals.
Day 4:
Ending the week with a visit to the unique terrain of Mt. Etna, a volcano that’s still active today and whose soil produces special products known worldwide, from blood oranges to olive oil to wine. Students got an inside glimpse into the branding, production, and uniqueness of these local goods.
Grazie mille to @accent and the team at Syracuse Academy for an unforgettable week.
