From the Coliseum to the Catacombs:

Imperial and Early Christian Rome

Global May Session 2012

Course Description: This course will explore archaeological sites, art, and artifacts associated with Christianity in Rome from the Augustan period through the early fifth century, A.D., and the theological claims asserted therein, and compare and contrast them with the theological and dynastic claims of the Imperial structures, art, and artifacts of the era.

Sites to be explored will include selected Christian catacombs (S. Agnes; Priscilla, Via Latina), churches (S. Agnes, S. Sabina, S. Maria Maggiore, S. Pudenziana; S. Paolo fuori le Mura; mausoleum of S. Costanzia), and the Vatican; and Imperial structures such as the Fora Romana, the Ara Pacis, the

Flavian Amphitheater (Coliseum), the Arch of Constantine, the Column of Trajan, the Temple of Mars Ultor, the ruins of Pompeii and Cumae (famous for its oracle and its role in Virgil’s Aeneid), and Hadrian’s villa at Tivoli. Museum resources will be utilized as well.

Free time will be available to explore the wonders of the Eternal City, enjoy gelato in the Piazza Novena, climb the Spanish Steps, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain—and shopping! Dates: May 7-15 (in Rome); May 16-25 (on campus).

Three (3) credit hrs. This course satisfies general elective requirements. Other applications, including EXL, are available by arrangement. Substantial need-based scholarships are available. An application is required. You must register for the course on Banner and with Explorica in order for your scholarship application to be reviewed.

Registration Information

Register for the course on Concordia’s Banner: INS 390 M1 Rome
Register with the Explorica tour company:
Go to Explorica.com
Go to Students►Find a Tour►Sign Up for a Tour

and enter the Tour Center ID: Bayens-3334

Go to “Sign Up Now,” enter the information as requested,

and proceed to “Next” to complete the payment options.

Explorica Fees: $3195 (various payment options); included: airline, hotel, two meals per day, entrance fees and transportation for scheduled activities.

For more information, contact Dr. Bayens: Patrick.Bayens@concordia-ny.edu

Past Trips:

The Art, Archeology and Theatres of Northern Greece- 2011

This cultural and historical immersion trip exposed students to the Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and Sephardic Jewish art, theaters and archeological sites of Northern Greece. Students visited one of the breathtaking Sporades islands off the eastern shore of mainland Greece.

Prior to departure students participated in an intensive study of history, culture and art in preparation for the trip. Upon return, students met on campus to create projects based on their experiences.

Guinness and Galway, Yeats and U2, Parnell and the Great Blasket: Ireland - 2010

Ireland Students experienced the urban and rural, literary and visual landscapes of Ireland. Starting in Dublin and then heading west to the Aran Islands, Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Dingle Peninsula, students were immersed in travel-writing, film, literature, and culture. Participants examined a variety of representations of Ireland and re-told its stories through various media. Students earned 3 credits in English or New Media.

Sailing the Wine-Dark Sea: Greece and the Ancient Aegean - 2009

Wine Sea Exploring the importance of locale for ancient religious sites, the meaning and influence of the Roman Imperial Cult in the Greek provinces, and the competing theological claims of early Christianity, students travelled to Athens, Delphi, Ephesus, Patmos, Rhodes, Crete, Santorini, and Cape Sounion, including a four-night Aegean cruise. Students earned 3 credits in Liberal Studies or Experiential Learning (other applications by arrangement). The participating class met on campus before and after the trip abroad.