Conservation Workshop

Florence and Central Italy Summer Conservation Workshop, June 2026

The LdM Conservation Workshop provides an exciting opportunity for participants of various ages and backgrounds to deepen their personal cultural experience and creative skills.

As a 4-week program, the workshop consists of a month-long hands on exploration of restoration and conservation, and it is offered in June. Along with related historical, religious and cultural insights, students balance studio classes in Florence with two weeks of field work on Elba Island.

The workshop does not require previous knowledge in the field of conservation and is open to all abilities. Offered in English.

Course code: RES 225 F

Credits: 6

Contact hours: 90

2 weeks in Florence + 2 weeks on Elba Island

LdM Restoration Lab – Florence (June 1-10)

Starting in Florence and continuing at the field location, the course equips students with knowledge and practical skills to address decay on different mediums. Tailored to the session’s program, participants learn both traditional and modern restoration techniques at the LdM Labs in Florence.

On-Field Weeks – Elba Island (June 11- June 23)

For this Summer 2026, the workshop will continue to the enchanting Tuscan island of Elba where conservation and restoration techniques are applied to authentic historic works of art, including original easel paintings and wooden artifacts from previous centuries. This part of the workshop will take place in the San Mamiliano church located in Marina di Campo. Final exam will be held on June 23 and then followed by returning to Florence.

The Church on Elba Island

The church of San Mamiliano is a Catholic house of worship located in Marina di Campo, on Elba Island. Of ancient origins, the beginning of its construction is considered to date back to the 11th century. Its façade is simple, featuring a central entrance door, two small windows and a modestly sized rose window. It now stands as a quiet testimony to the island’s long Christian history and as a tribute to Saint Mamilian to preserve the memory of his life and devotion.

About Elba Island

Elba Island is the largest island of the Tuscan Archipelago, located in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the coast of Tuscany. This enchanting location has a long and fascinating history and it has often been in center of many historical events. Originally inhabited by Etruscans and Romans, Elba island is linked to the modern era as the place in which Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled in 1814-1815. Nowadays, the island preserves its rich heritage, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its numerous historical sites while enjoying its breathtaking views and crystalline waters.

General Information
The stay in Florence consists of regular attendance at the LdM Institute, where the participants follow scheduled daily classes on the school’s premises and around the city (if pertinent). The fieldwork consists of full-day activities spent at the scheduled location, where the participants will be involved full-time with educational activities balanced with recreational activities.

General Admission Requirements

• Participants must be at least 18 years of age.
• Participants must be in good medical/psychological condition to succeed in the program.

Summer Application Deadlines

Summer I (June): April 15, 2026*

*Independent students (those not enrolling through a partner institution) can contact [email protected] for more information regarding the Summer Programs deadlines.

Limited number of spots available.

The Tuition Fee includes

• The entire course for a total of 90 contact hours.
• Accommodation in a double room with half board at the scheduled field location only.
• Transportation from Florence to the field location and back to Florence.

The Tuition Fee does NOT include

• Accommodation in Florence and board in Florence or at the scheduled field location.
• Food and beverages (to be paid for on site).
• Required personal materials (to be brought from home and/or purchased in Florence).
• Lab fee (if any – to be paid on site).
• Any minor transportation by public bus that may be required.
• Field trip fees.

Further details and suggestions about expenses will be given during enrollment and the first classes.