Italy and the Modern Museum

University of Georgia · Program Director

Summer 2027

Lievin Cruyl, "Eighteen Views of Rome: The Campidoglio," 1665, ink on paper, Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH.

Taught in Rome and Florence during the "Museum Studies in Italy" international field study program.

Semesters: Summer 2027

This course traces the origins of the modern museum in Italy, where public museums first emerged. Through visiting centuries-old institutions across Rome and Florence, students learn about the role of Italy in shaping the history of museums and global curatorial and collecting practices. Through site visits, guided tours, and discussion, students analyze the collections, architecture, exhibition strategies, and interpretive frameworks of these early museums.

Course Codes: MUSE 4405/6405

Study Abroad in Summer 2027

“Museum Studies in Italy” is a new short-term intensive study abroad program that I developed and will lead as Program Director in June 2027. Offered as an elective in Museum Studies and History, the course will immerse students in Rome and Florence through a series of site visits to some of the earliest public museums, examining the collections, institutions, and cultural practices that shaped the origins of the modern museum.

Learn more about studying abroad at UGA

UGA Office of Global Engagement