LdM Tuscania

T he LdM program in Tuscania is grounded in commitment to full immersion, which distinguishes it from LdM programs in Florence. Owing to the smaller size of the town and its geographic location, students can live and study in a more typical Italian environment.

Located in the Lazio region, south of Florence and not far north of the capital of Rome, Tuscania is a hilltop town with fewer than 10,000 residents. Its geographic diversity is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike who hope to drink in the breathtaking landscapes of the southern Maremma coastland, an area littered with olive trees and golden sunflower fields. Tuscania is an ideal destination for studying the Earth’s environment, agricultural science and technology, archaeology, yoga and meditation, en-plain-air painting and landscape photography, Italian language, small businesses, and the farm-to-table traditions of central Italy’s cuisine.

For centuries, Tuscania has been visited and admired by foreigners for its picturesque setting, cobblestone streets and fine food culture. The town is decorated with scenic squares, ancient churches, alleys, and beautiful towers. The San Giacomo Maggiore cathedral square is like an open-air salon where people can pause to feel cool air skating off the top of an 18th-century fountain. Long known for its propensity to inspire artists from every state and specialty, Tuscania was chosen by famous filmmakers Pier Paolo Pasolini, Orson Welles and Franco Zeffirelli as the backdrop for their films The Hawks and the Sparrows (1966), Othello (1952) and Romeo and Juliet (1968), respectively.

Tuscania, a hidden gem, stands apart from the bustling crowds of mass tourism. Here, students have the unique opportunity to delve into the rich cultural traditions of Italy and embrace the picturesque surroundings, providing an authentic Italian experience that will leave a lasting impression. LdM encourages students to make the most of their stay in Italy by discovering different aspects of the countryside around Tuscania, which forms part of a nationally protected nature reserve with ancient Etruscan archaeological sites just outside the town.

On Thursdays and Fridays, LdM offers free transfers to the nearest train station in Tarquinia. On Sundays, students can arrive at the Tarquinia train station for a free return transfer back to Tuscania. With complimentary logistical support, students gain confidence planning weekend trips and participating in LdM-organized excursions to major cities as well as ancient towns, such as Viterbo, Orvieto, and Civita di Bagnoregio.

The LdM Tuscania site is situated in the historic town center surrounded by medieval stone walls. Its facilities include reading rooms and a library, an artist laboratory, a computer center, exhibition space, and a fully equipped instructional kitchen overlooking a community garden. Organized activities introduce students to ancient, local handicrafts and traditions to include organic farming, bread baking, gelato making, clay sculpting, fresco painting, textile restoration, and glass work.

In Tuscania, LdM students’ successful integration with the community and its residents is key. Staff and faculty welcome LdM students with open arms, teaching and encouraging them to build relationships in this new and inspiring cultural context.