24 SEPT 2025 La Dolce Vita!

On Saturday September 13, students and staff from Kolbe Catholic College set off on a remarkable two-week tour of Italy, departing from Melbourne with excitement and anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead. This eagerly awaited journey promised to showcase the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine of one of the world’s most beloved destinations.

The tour began with Florence, a city steeped in artistic heritage. The group wasted no time in diving into the local culture, accumulating an impressive 20,000 steps within just their first days. A guided tour of Florence illuminated the legacies of iconic figures like Dante Alighieri and Michelangelo. One of the standout moments was visiting the Accademia Gallery, where students marvelled at Michelangelo's masterpiece, the David, along with a stunning array of Renaissance art. A visit to the bustling Mercato Centrale gave everyone a taste of authentic Italian dishes.

No trip to Italy would be complete without a snapshot in Pisa, where the group posed in front of the iconic Leaning Tower. The beauty of the 12th-century Baptistery, complete with its remarkable acoustics, captivated everyone as a local guide shared anecdote of its history.

Next, our travellers ventured to Siena, soaking in the city's enchanting architecture while also indulging in gelato – a recurring favourite throughout their adventure. They took note of the unique architectural features that define each city, reflecting on the stories and histories behind them. Cap off the day, they enjoyed a delightful country-style meal at a charming farmhouse.

As their journey continued, they made their way to Orvieto, a picturesque cliffside town filled with vibrant markets and stunning views. Climbing to the city tower provided sweeping vistas of the terracotta roofs below, and of course, more gelato was consumed amidst the explorations. The group then arrived in Rome, where they immersed themselves in the historic heart of the city.

Their first day in Rome was dedicated to the awe-inspiring Vatican City. The Vatican Museum dazzled them with its exceptional art collections, culminating in a visit to the iconic St Peter's Basilica and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. After a quick lunch, their adventure continued through Rome’s famous piazzas, where they captured unforgettable memories at the Spanish Steps and relished gelato by the Trevi Fountain, all while keeping tabs on the Brisbane v Collingwood match.

On their second day in Rome, the magnificent Colosseum awaited. Walking in the footsteps of ancient Romans and learning about their intriguing social structures was a highlight. The exploration of the Forum Romanum offered a glimpse into the political and social life of ancient Rome, enriching the students' understanding of history.

The journey took them next to the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii, where the group walked ancient roads and peeked into homes, witnessing the frozen moments of daily life before the eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79 CE. Special thanks were extended to their guide, Massimo, for an enlightening experience.

Following Pompeii, they relished some leisure time in Sorrento, enjoying the refreshing waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. A highlight was an interactive gelato-making class, where students learned the difference between sorbet and gelato, equipping them with recipes to recreate such delights at home. The breathtaking Island of Capri awaited them next. With guidance from Elyce, they explored the island’s geological wonders, capturing picture-perfect moments against the stunning backdrop of the blue waters.

As their enchanting visit ended, an unexpected rain shower added a delightful twist to their Sorrento experience before heading back to Rome for a wonderful dinner.

This trip has not only enriched the students’ understanding of Italian culture and history but has also forged friendships and unforgettable memories. As their flight home approaches, everyone looks forward to sharing their experiences and the countless stories from a truly unforgettable journey through Italy.