Princely States of the Italian Renaissance
The courts of Central and Northern Italy inspired some of the outstanding achievements of the entire Renaissance. The rulers of these courts: the Gonzaga in Mantua, the Este in Ferrara and Modena, and the Farnese in Parma, were among the foremost artistic patrons of their era.
The eminent historian and art historian Charles FitzRoy has a profound knowledge of the period and is the perfect guide for this tour.
We will admire the magnificent frescoes by Mantegna and Giulio Romano in Mantua, by Francesco del Cossa and Cosimo Tura in Ferrara, and by Correggio and Parmigianino in Parma, as well as the charming Renaissance town of Sabbioneta and major works by Velazquez and Bernini in the Galleria Estense in Modena. These painters and sculptors were inspired by the rich artistic heritage that surrounded them, and, we will visit the suberb Romanesque cathedrals of Parma, Modena and Ferrara.
We will gain further insight into the culture of the Po Valley by visiting a number of private houses, where we will be entertained by the owners.
Hotel: The five-star Grand Hotel di Parma with its grand entrance hall, sweeping staircase and spacious, comfortable rooms on wide, elegant corridors is an excellent base for our tour. Breakfast and dinner are served in the high-ceilinged dining room which looks onto the leafy garden.
Cost: £4,950 This includes five nights bed and breakfast, all lunches and two dinners, all visits, lectures and coach trips. We reserve the right to adjust the price should there be a significant alteration in the rate of the exchange. Please note that the cost of air travel is not included.
Single Occupancy: There will be a supplement of £400 for single occupancy of a double room.
Flights: Please let us know if you would like to travel as part of the group from London and we will advise you of the flights we have selected for this tour.
Insurance: Travel insurance is an essential requirement if you are taking a tour.
Lecturer: Charles FitzRoy
Tour Leader: Jane Rae
