Sicily’s art and architecture mirror its history as a kaleidoscope of cultures. From stark Greek temples through dazzling Roman and Arab-Norman mosaics and on to Baroque opulence and charming romantic-era revivals, art historian Janetta Rebold Benton highlights the aesthetic eclecticism and cultural signposts of this sun-splashed island.
10–11 a.m. Antiquity
Greek temples at Agrigento; the search for ideal mathematical ratios in architecture and sculpture; 4th-century Roman mosaics at the Villa Romana del Casale reveal a lifestyle of colorful pleasures.
11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. The Middle Ages
The well-preserved medieval town of Erice; celebrated 12th-century Arab-Norman mosaics of the Palatine Chapel in Palermo; unequaled cathedrals, mosaics, and cloisters in Cefalù and Monreale.
12:15–1:15 p.m. Enjoy a Sicilian-themed lunch
1:15–2:15 p.m. Renaissance to Baroque
Early-Renaissance painter Antonello da Messina and Baroque painter Caravaggio; a white stucco oratory in Palermo; curious combinations of cultures in Siracusa and Palermo; dramatic Baroque churches in Modica and Ragusa Ibla.
2:30–3:30 p.m. Luxury Living, 18th and 19th-century Style
The bizarre décor of the “Villa of the Monsters” in Bagheria; the Chinese-inspired Palazzina Cinese outside Palermo; classical and Gothic revival styles at Castello di Donnafugata near Ragusa; Palermo’s eclectic Villa Whitaker.
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit*
*Enrolled participants in the World Art History Certificate Program receive 1 elective credit. Not yet enrolled? Learn about the program, its benefits, and how to register here.
