Course has been cancelled.

From the Collapse of Rome to the Construction of Cathedrals:
Tracing the Transition from Late Antiquity to the Middle Ages in Southern Italy

Study Abroad Special Funding for 2013

CLASS 399/HIST 300 (total of *6) in Rionero (August 4-25)

In this course we will study the transition from Late Antiquity to the Middle Ages in Basilicata. Our aim is to leave aside the sweeping narratives about that transition in general, and focus instead on this one region in S. Italy, where we will examine primary sources documenting local and regional developments during the decline of Rome and ascent of Christianity. We will be based in Rionero in the Vulture [Vool’ too ray] region and collaborate with a local school, and an ongoing excavation there. Our time will be about equally divided between in-class work, excursions to major monuments, and first-hand experience with the various aspects of local archaeological research.

This course will provide a unique introduction to a beautiful, but little known region of Italy, and as such has much to offer to any interested student.

The course has three main components:

The study of ancient and medieval texts relevant to the region and/or the period.
Excursions to relevant monuments and museums.
On-site introduction to all aspects of archaeological fieldwork at an excavation of a late Roman and early Medieval villa.
In this way students will gain insight into the full range of historical date available to us, and the specific advantages (and weaknesses) of each type.

Daily Program

Application & Course Fee

Brochure (PDF)

Application Form (WORD