Ancient Rome Comes to Life for Classics Pupils

The Classics Department trip to Rome this half term was an inspirational opportunity for our pupils in the Upper Remove to Upper Sixth to see their studies in reality and soak up the beauty of the eternal city. 

The jam-packed itinerary allowed Latin and Classics pupils to visit sites and artefacts studied as part of their GCSE and A-level courses. The pupils not only saw the usual highlights of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, but also got to go off the touristy track and visit places such as the Vicus Caprarius, an ancient waterway which still supplies the Trevi Fountain, and the Basilica of San Clemente which is a church built on top of a Mithraeum, providing an excellent example of the layers of history which can be observed in Rome.

From underground archaeological sites to a bird’s eye view of the city atop the Vittorio Emanuele building, the pupils were able to appreciate the different districts within Rome and were treated to the most beautiful sunset while up there.

Rome 2026 in statistics: 28 miles walked, 21 sites visited, 53 gelati consumed (unconfirmed).  

Beyond the itinerary, the pupils were able to learn and practise a new language and gain satisfaction from sourcing the best pizza spot for lunch. Through their learning, they could also gain an appreciation of Rome after the Romans, broadening their understanding of history, geography, art and culture.

Card games were played, statues were imitated and memories were made. It was an excellent week and enjoyed by both pupils and staff alike. One of the many reasons why this trip is so special is that it allows our pupils to walk in the footsteps of those who they have studied for the past few years and see the world through their eyes.