SEMESTER/ACADEMIC YEAR

UNIVERSITY OF SALAMANCA: SPANISH LANGUAGE AND CULTURE PROGRAM

BARCELONA / FALL STUDENTS

Barcelona is home to a remarkable cultural energy, unique cuisine and fiercely individual spirit. The glorious modernist architecture (Art Nouveau) studs the city streets and avenues, and is mainly represented by the various works by Antoni Gaudí including the Sagrada Familia Church. The city also boasts an artistic legacy, from important Romanesque and Gothic works to major galleries.

EL ESCORIAL / WINTER AND FALL STUDENTS

The Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial was constructed between 1563-1584 and built in the purest 16th century Renaissance style. Nearly all Bourbon kings and queens of Spain have been buried here. It is a royal palace, a monastery, school and houses the private library of Philip II which contains some of the oldest books in the world.

EXTREMADURA / SPRING STUDENTS

Several towns are “musts” in this region. First is Mérida, home of the largest number of Roman ruins outside of Italy, as well as a Museum of Roman Art, an amphitheater and aqueducts. Second is Cáceres, a Medieval and Renaissance city with walls that were built by the Romans and Almohads. Third is Trujillo, the cradle of more than 500 conquerors. Walking through this city will offer the opportunity to see many historical monuments and the Moorish castle. The mountain-town within the region of Las Villuercas leads to the historic village of Guadalupe, home of the Sanctuary-Monastery of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

LISBON, PORTUGAL: INTERNATIONAL EXCURSION / SPRING STUDENTS*

Lisbon is a European city like no other. It boasts as grand a cultural and historical heritage as many other European cities, but also has an earthier side that sets it apart. An impressive Gothic cathedral, the Hieronymites Monastery, St. George’s Castle and Torre de Belém are all part of the colourful cityscape. Another side of LIsbon is discovered wandering around the narrow lanes of Alfama, Rossio and Barrio Alto Quarters, and taking in the sounds and rhythm of the city. One experiences a step back in time through visits to the cultural sites in Lisbon, while also gaining an impression of the differences between Portugal and Spain.

MADRID / WINTER AND FALL STUDENTS

Spain’s capital blends the modern with an important cultural and artistic heritage. Three of the most important art galleries in the world (the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums) are all located in the center of Madrid. All this, combined with the momentum of a society that is dynamic, liberal and welcoming, has turned this metropolis into one of the western world’s great capitals.

PARIS, FRANCE: INTERNATIONAL EXCURSION / FALL STUDENTS

One of the most intriguing cities in the world, Paris is full of amazing museums, architecture, music, fashion and beauty. One of the great cultural and intellectual centers of the West, it is felt by many to be the heart, soul, and imagination of France. Innumerable monuments built to reflect the glory of France and its rulers stand testament to the city’s rich history. The Louvre, a former palace and current home to the world’s largest art collection; Notre Dame, a grandiose jewel of the gothic era; the Eiffel Tower, a turn of the century masterpiece; and Montmartre, an artist’s haven, are only a few examples of Paris’ highlights.

ROME, ITALY: INTERNATIONAL EXCURSION / WINTER STUDENTS*

With an almost uninterrupted history as an important center of power for more than two millennia, Rome is as close to eternal as it gets. The “Eternal City” was once the administrative center of the mighty Roman Empire, governing a vast region that stretched all the way from Britain to Mesopotamia. Today, it remains the seat of the Italian government and the world’s biggest open air museum.

SEGOVIA / WINTER AND FALL STUDENTS

Segovia is a characteristic Old Castilian town that rose to importance under the Romans. Entering the city, all roads converge to one of the largest ancient structures remaining in Spain - the 2,000-year old Roman aqueduct. Following the winding roads through town, the cathedral tower and the beautiful medieval tower, as well as the Alcázar, rise above the city with majesty and grace.

SEVILLE / WINTER STUDENTS

Seville, capital of the Andalucía region of southern Spain, is an unique example where history, tradition and modernity merge in an incomparable city. The core of Islamic Seville includes the area on the East bank of the Guadalquivir where the Cathedral, the Christian Alcázar, and the medieval quarter known as the Barrio Santa Cruz are located today. To explore the city’s narrow streets and smell the orange blossoms in Spring while mingling with people at a cafe is definitely an unforgettable experience.

TOLEDO / WINTER AND FALL STUDENTS

Toledo, located south of Madrid, was declared ‘City of Mankind’s Heritage’ by UNESCO in 1986. It was capital of Spain from mid-6th to the mid-16th centuries, as evidenced by its impressive medieval architecture. Known as the “City of the Three Cultures,” it served as a hub for Jews, Moors and Christians and has today become a symbol of religious tolerance. Walking through Toledo is like taking a magic journey into the past.

* Students who participate in the winter and spring quarters choose only one international excursion.

SEMESTER/ACADEMIC YEAR

UNIVERSITY OF SALAMANCA: ALL OTHER PROGRAMS

BARCELONA / FALL STUDENTS

Barcelona is home to a remarkable cultural energy, unique cuisine and fiercely individual spirit. The glorious modernist architecture (Art Nouveau) studs the city streets and avenues, and is mainly represented by the various works by Antoni Gaudí including the Sagrada Familia Church. The city also boasts an artistic legacy, from important Romanesque and Gothic works to major galleries.

EL ESCORIAL / ALL STUDENTS

The Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial was constructed between 1563-1584 and built in the purest 16th century Renaissance style. Nearly all Bourbon kings and queens of Spain have been buried here. It is a royal palace, a monastery, school and houses the private library of Philip II which contains some of the oldest books in the world.

EXTREMADURA / SPRING STUDENTS*

Several towns are “musts” in this region. First is Mérida, home of the largest number of Roman ruins outside of Italy, as well as a Museum of Roman Art, an amphitheater and aqueducts. Second is Cáceres, a Medieval and Renaissance city with walls that were built by the Romans and Almohads. Third is Trujillo, the cradle of more than 500 conquerors. Walking through this city will offer the opportunity to see many historical monuments and the Moorish castle. The mountain-town within the region of Las Villuercas leads to the historic village of Guadalupe, home of the Sanctuary-Monastery of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

* For PEI program participants only

MADRID / ALL STUDENTS

Spain’s capital blends the modern with an important cultural and artistic heritage. Three of the most important art galleries in the world (the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums) are all located in the center of Madrid. All this, combined with the momentum of a society that is dynamic, liberal and welcoming, has turned this metropolis into one of the western world’s great capitals.

PARIS, FRANCE: INTERNATIONAL EXCURSION / FALL STUDENTS

One of the most intriguing cities in the world, Paris is full of amazing museums, architecture, music, fashion and beauty. One of the great cultural and intellectual centers of the West, it is felt by many to be the heart, soul, and imagination of France. Innumerable monuments built to reflect the glory of France and its rulers stand testament to the city’s rich history. The Louvre, a former palace and current home to the world’s largest art collection; Notre Dame, a grandiose jewel of the gothic era; the Eiffel Tower, a turn of the century masterpiece; and Montmartre, an artist’s haven, are only a few examples of Paris’ highlights.

ROME, ITALY: INTERNATIONAL EXCURSION / SPRING STUDENTS

With an almost uninterrupted history as an important center of power for more than two millennia, Rome is as close to eternal as it gets. The “Eternal City” was once the administrative center of the mighty Roman Empire, governing a vast region that stretched all the way from Britain to Mesopotamia. Today, it remains the seat of the Italian government and the world’s biggest open air museum.

SEGOVIA / ALL STUDENTS

Segovia is a characteristic Old Castilian town that rose to importance under the Romans. Entering the city, all roads converge to one of the largest ancient structures remaining in Spain - the 2,000-year old Roman aqueduct. Following the winding roads through town, the cathedral tower and the beautiful medieval tower, as well as the Alcázar, rise above the city with majesty and grace.

SEVILLE / SPRING STUDENTS

Seville, capital of the Andalucía region of southern Spain, is an unique example where history, tradition and modernity merge in an incomparable city. The core of Islamic Seville includes the area on the East bank of the Guadalquivir where the Cathedral, the Christian Alcázar, and the medieval quarter known as the Barrio Santa Cruz are located today. To explore the city’s narrow streets and smell the orange blossoms in Spring while mingling with people at a cafe is definitely an unforgettable experience.

TOLEDO / ALL STUDENTS

Toledo, located south of Madrid, was declared ‘City of Mankind’s Heritage’ by UNESCO in 1986. It was capital of Spain from mid-6th to the mid-16th centuries, as evidenced by its impressive medieval architecture. Known as the “City of the Three Cultures,” it served as a hub for Jews, Moors and Christians and has today become a symbol of religious tolerance. Walking through Toledo is like taking a magic journey into the past.

SUMMER

ASTURIAS / SUMMER 2 & 3 STUDENTS

The Asturias region is situated on the Spanish north coast facing the Cantabrian Sea. The scenery in the National Park of Picos de Europa features immense slopes and dramatic gorges, lush green valleys and beautiful forests, crystal clear streams and jagged peaks dominating the horizon. The region is also known for its small settlements of attractive old stone buildings.

EL ESCORIAL / ALL STUDENTS

The Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo del Escorial was constructed between 1563-1584 and built in the purest 16th century Renaissance style. Nearly all Bourbon kings and queens of Spain have been buried here. It is a royal palace, a monastery, school and houses the private library of Philip II which contains some of the oldest books in the world.

GALICIA AND SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA / SUMMER 1 STUDENTS

The tomb of apostle St. James was discovered here at the beginning of the 9th century and many churches were erected in his honor soon afterwards. In 1075, the beautiful Romanesque Cathedral was built. In the Middle Ages, Santiago de Compostela was the third Christian pilgrimage destination. The Government of Galicia is located here and its university is the most important in the region.

MADRID / ALL STUDENTS

Spain’s capital blends the modern with an important cultural and artistic heritage. Three of the most important art galleries in the world (the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums) are all located in the center of Madrid. All this, combined with the momentum of a society that is dynamic, liberal and welcoming, has turned this metropolis into one of the western world’s great capitals.

PORTO, PORTUGAL INTERNATIONAL EXCURSION / 2 & 3 STUDENTS

Porto is Portugal’s second largest city, and a very busy industrial and commercial center. The city was built along the hills overlooking the Douro river estuary, and its historical center was awarded World Heritage status by UNESCO in 1996. Porto’s geography is hard on the feet, but pleasant to the eye. The city is extremely hilly, with many buildings built into a cliff face that overlooks the river. Students will enjoy getting to know this lovely Portuguese city.

SEGOVIA AND LA GRANJA / ALL STUDENTS

Segovia is a characteristic Old Castilian town that rose to importance under the Romans. Entering the city, all roads converge to one of the largest ancient structures remaining in Spain - the 2,000-year old Roman aqueduct. Following the winding roads through town, the cathedral tower and the beautiful medieval tower, as well as the Alcázar, rise above the city with majesty and grace.

TOLEDO / ALL STUDENTS

Toledo, located south of Madrid, was declared ‘City of Mankind’s Heritage’ by UNESCO in 1986. It was capital of Spain from mid-6th to the mid-16th centuries, as evidenced by its impressive medieval architecture. Known as the “City of the Three Cultures,” it served as a hub for Jews, Moors and Christians and has today become a symbol of religious tolerance. Walking through Toledo is like taking a magic journey into the past.