A rich connection between the people and art is at the core of the many traditions of Italy. Italy the culture explores the religious history of the country, the festivals, art, and architecture as well as the language and literature of Italy. Topics include: the heart of Roman Catholicism, Vatican City - St. Peter‘s Basilica and its beautiful art, celebrating Natale, Capdanno, and Pasqua, Carnevale, Liberation Day, and Palio - a horserace in a town square, Renaissance and Baroque art featuring Michelangelo, ancient ruins - the Pantheon, Colosseum, and leaning tower of Pisa, the home of opera, commedia dell‘arte, and famous literature, an Italian folktale - The tale of precious gifts, language and literature, and stories of adventure.