Italy holidays
Uncover the mysteries of the Bay of Naples, once one of the greatest centres of classical Roman civilisation, with experts Dr Steve Kershaw or Stephen Nelson. The excavated remains of Pompeii, Boscoreale and Villa Oplontis, entombed in ash in the Mount Vesuvius eruption of 79AD, provide a special glimpse into this lost world. Herculaneum, covered in mud rather than ash, is remarkably well preserved, with multi-storey buildings, frescoes and mosaics on show. The region’s Greek highlights include Cumae, the Sibyl’s Cave and the imposing temples of Paestum.
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Fly from London to Naples with British Airways. Transfer to Sorrento and, after an introductory lecture and welcome dinner, stay at Hotel Villa di Sorrento for 6 nights. (D)
Full-day tour to the little-known but exciting area of the Phlegrean Fields, also known as the ‘burning fields’ due to their volcanic nature. Morning visit to Cumae, the first Greek settlement in mainland Italy and home to the cave of Sibyl, as described in Virgil’s Aeneid. Continue to Baia Archaeological Park with its Roman thermal spa and museum. Finish with a visit to Pozzuoli to see the volcanic crater of Solfatara and the Flavian amphitheatre. (B)
Visit the extensive ruins of Pompeii, the Roman city buried under ash during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD. Visit the archaeological park, where fascinating sights include the basilica, the forum and the amphitheatre. Return to the hotel via the excellently preserved Villa of the Mysteries, which features controversial frescoes thought to depict the secret cult of Dionysus. (B)
Full-day visit to Paestum, one of Italy’s most majestic sites, to see the magnificent Doric temples of Ceres, Hera and Neptune. Visit the museum and the recently discovered Greek tomb paintings. (B)
In the morning, visit the excavated imperial villa at Oplontis, thought to be the home of Emperor Nero’s second wife. Afternoon visit to the ruins of Herculaneum, which are better preserved than those at Pompeii. (B)
Morning visit to the ancient Roman seaside resort of Stabiae, which was destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius. See the impressive remains of Villa San Marco, one of the largest villas discovered in Campania, and Villa Arianna, known for its frescoes. Afternoon at leisure. (B)
Morning visit to the Naples National Archaeological Museum and its collection of treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Lunch at a typical Neapolitan pizzeria, then visit the Hellenistic necropolis of Naples. Airport transfer for a flight to London with British Airways. (B, L)
As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
This tour is fully escorted throughout by the lecturer, as well as an experienced local guide.
Typically based in 3- and 4-star accommodation.
This tour involves some long walks over uneven ground and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Dr Nigel Spivey is a senior lecturer in Classics at the University of Cambridge, teaching classical art and archaeology. He has written extensively on the Etruscans and Olympic Games; his books include The Ancient Olympics, Greek Art, and Panorama of the Classical World. He has also presented various television series.
Andrew Allen studied history of art at the University of East Anglia and obtained his MA in medieval paintings at the University of Essex. He worked for Phillips Auctioneers and lectured on history of art. Andrew has recently traversed Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, leading tours and researching early Christian and Islamic art.
Dr Steve Kershaw has taught Classics in a number of establishments, and now works for Oxford University Department for Continuing Education. He authored and teaches Oxford's on-line Greek mythology course and has also spent time as a guest speaker for Swan Hellenic Cruises and Royal Hebridean Cruises.
Hotel Villa di Sorrento occupies a historic property dating back to 1854. It is a family-run and characterful property with a homely feel. Located in the centre of town, it is within close proximity of local restaurants and shops. Features: 21 rooms, lounge, complimentary Wi-Fi. Room amenities: Air conditioning, heating, television, hairdryer, safety deposit...
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Steve has taught classics in a number of establishments, and now works for Oxford University Department for Continuing Education. He authored and teaches Oxford’s on-line Greek mythology course and has also spent time as a guest speaker for Swan Hellenic Cruises and Royal Hebridean Cruises.
Regional air connections are available from within the UK. Please contact your travel consultant for current prices from your nearest city. We can also arrange flights from overseas, simply give us a call to find out more.
If you choose to take the tour without flights arranged through Cox & Kings, please contact one of our travel consultants prior to booking the flights to ensure that you are aware of the tour timings and all the implications of not booking through us. We strongly advise you not to book flights independently of Cox & Kings if significant charges would apply in case of cancellation.
Flight details may be subject to change prior to departure.
This tour can be booked / reserved online by clicking on one of the coloured links below.
IPO2016: 6 Nights