Join Torah in Motion for a unique and intellectually inspiring trip to Italy designed by Dr. Marc Shapiro.
- See the Colosseum, and learn about it's Jewish story
- Visit the beautiful town of Pitigliano, and learn about its Jewish significance
- Experience Shabbat in Florence, one of Europe’s most magnificent cities
- Walk the streets of Venice, a city unlike any other
- Sample the wine at a kosher winery
We'll be visiting Rome, Tuscany, Pitigliano, Florence, Pisa, Ferrara, and Venice. This trip promises to be an unforgettable Italian experience, with a focus on places of Jewish interest. A central feature of the tour will be Dr. Shapiro's expert discussions of the many places we will visit, making the trip nothing less than a travelling classroom. In addition, we will be joined by expert local guides who will provide their own angle. Before departure, Dr. Shapiro will send participants an educational packet that will be used on the trip.
And of course, in addition to the special Torah in Motion educational and spiritual nourishment, the Journey Through Jewish History in Italy will feature:
- luxury hotels in prime locations;
- Three fresh kosher meals daily; and
- expert local tour guides for sites of general interest.
Italy 2016 with Dr. Marc Shapiro July 26 - August 3, 2016
ITINERARY Highlights (subject to change)
Tuesday 26 July: Rome
Former ghetto area of Rome. Jewish Museum, the Great Synagogue, the Trastevere, and the Campo Di Fiori where, on Rosh Ha-Shanah 1553, the Talmud was burned.
Wednesday 27 July: Rome
Arch of Titus and its famous Menorah, the Colosseum, The ruins of the Roman Forum, an international center filled with great palaces and all the pomp that we connect with names like Caesar, Nero and Cicero. Spanish Steps and the glorious Trevi Fountain. Optional tour of the Vatican Museum.
Thursday 28 July: Rome, Pitigliano, Florence
Pitigliano, where Jews settled in the 16th century as anti-Jewish sentiment became stronger in the Papal States. Pitigliano became known as “Little Jerusalem” as the Jewish community grew increasingly prosperous throughout the following centuries. Visit the former ghetto, synagogue and Museum.
Florence, Piazza Michelangelo for an amazing panoramic view of the city below.
Saturday 30 July: Florence
Services at great Florence Synagogue, Walk to Piazza Delle Signoria and famous Duomo. Dr. Shapiro will also offer a class in the afternoon dealing with an Italian Torah theme.
Sunday 31 July: Florence, Sienna, Pisa, Florence
Siena: town square and the fascinating synagogue. Kosher winery. Pisa.
Monday 1 August: Florence, Venice
Venice. Tour the Jewish Ghetto (Europe’s first official ghetto). The tour will include the various synagogues and the Jewish Museum.
Tuesday 2 August: Venice
Lido for an exclusive visit to the Jewish cemetery. Murano Island to see how they make the beautiful glass. Piazza San Marco (which houses the Doge’s Palace), Rialto Bridge, which spans across the Grand Canal of Venice Island.
Wednesday 3 August: Venice, Home
Transfer by boat to the airport for your flights back home.