325Z Fall 2026 History for Travelers: Etruscans, Romans, and the High Middle Ages

This course explores three extraordinary Italian sites — the Monterozzi Necropolis in Tarquinia, Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli, and the medieval city of Siena — as gateways into three civilizations that profoundly shaped the Western world: the Etruscans, the Romans, and the society of the High Middle Ages. Through their art, architecture, and historical legacy, we will trace the cultural evolution of Italy from antiquity to the medieval era. 

Laura Vinti was born and raised in Italy. After 17 years in Germany and 15 years in the U.S., she now lives in Florence, where she works as a tour designer and manager. She has taught at several universities in Germany, the U.S., and Italy. Laura holds an MA in Foreign Languages and Literature and an MFA in Creative Writing.