We begin our journey of Western civilization in the ‘Eternal City’. With visits to the Colosseum and the ruins of the Forum, we wander through time and discuss the foundations of the West in the streets of the most excellent open-air museum—Rome. We will witness the physical and literal layers of Rome’s history—intermixed with high fashion, luxury cars, and an unparalleled passion for soccer! Whether writing morning notes on the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica, debating ideas in the Forum, or sampling the world’s best gelato at the Trevi Fountain, in Rome, we witness the ghosts of history come alive at every turn.

Our second stop is the cradle of the Renaissance. Here you’ll walk the streets, barter in the marketplaces, and eat from the same food stalls as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Surrounded by some of the world’s most innovative architecture, Florence is the perfect place to ignite your interest in the birth of humanism. You’ll grapple with the events and ideas of the Reformation, the ravages of the Black Plague, and the glorification of human ingenuity and creativity. As you wander through the world-famous Uffizi, Il Duomo, and the Accademia, we have a chance to revel in the potential of the human spirit. Here our focus will not only examine great works of art and architecture, but trace the rise of the modern banking system. Here, the legacy of political competition that led to murderous plots and intrigues of the Alberti, Pazzi and Medici families still echo in the streets of Florence. It is no wonder this city has been the favourite of artists, writers, and historians for centuries — it is the perfect place to investigate the Renaissance.

In Paris, lessons focus on the Age of Enlightenment and the Age of Revolution as we debate the nature of humanity and the structure of civilization. In the crypt of the Pantheon, we revisit the arguments put forth by Rousseau and Voltaire that laid the foundation for the French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon. From bike rides in the Gardens of Versailles to visits to the Musée du Louvre, the D’Orsay and the Pompidou, Paris is a once-in-a-lifetime immersion into French history and culture.

Making our way to the top of Europe, we emerge from the Stechelberg gondola to find our new home in the picture-postcard Swiss village of Gimmelwald. Here, we hike mountains and roast marshmallows by the fireside—with the clamour of giant cowbells, bleating mountain goats, and the sound of rushing waterfalls all around. This is the ideal location to discuss the inter-war years and receive one-on-one mentorship while enjoying morning coffee overlooking the Alps.

In Munich, we examine the details of the rise of Nazi Germany and trace the impact of the National Socialist movement on both the European continent and the rest of the world. From Hitler’s speeches at Odeonsplatz to the horrific legacy of the Dachau Concentration Camp, lectures and master classes place us directly where history happened—making for an educational experience that leaves a profound impact on us all.

Online Post-trip Sessions
Upon your return, you will have time to complete additional research and your Final Culminating Assessment. This time allows you to reflect on and integrate your travel experiences into the course material. The MEI staff have found this evaluation style enjoyable and the most authentic way for students to demonstrate their knowledge and academic skills. After your assessment, you will complete your course exams online. Once your marks have been reviewed, MEI Academy will send your transcript to your home school to add to your academic records.