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CAA/CALL Travel: Italy and Austria – the Rise and Fall of Empires
- Fri, May 08–Thu, May 21, 2026
Calvin celebrates its 150th anniversary during the 2025–2026 school year, and our travel program is joining the celebration by exploring 10 countries across six continents. Join us as we commemorate Calvin’s global reach with an exciting line-up of tours.
Tour Dates
This tour is being developed as a 14-day tour in May 2026. Key cities are Rome, Salerno (near Pompeii), and Venice in Italy, as well as Vienna in Austria.
Tour Update
This tour was originally planned around “The Rise and Fall of Empires” in Italy and Austria. When co-leader Ryan Noppen was no longer able to participate, we narrowed the focus to Italy, tapping into Ken Bratt’s areas of expertise.
Highlights
- Catacombs of San Callisto
- Colosseum and Roman Forum
- Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
- Pompeii
- Monte Cassino
- Accademia and Uffizi Galleries in Florence
- Cinque Terra by boat and train
- Milan
Tour Host
Ken Bratt is a retired professor of classics at Ƶ and a specialist in Greek and Roman history and archaeology. He will give two lectures and provide commentary at stops along the tour.
Activity Level
The tour will require a moderate amount of walking, mostly on level ground, through ancient sites and museums. In general, these walks will not exceed two hours without a break for rest or refreshments.
Pricing
- $6,675 for double occupancy
- $7,975 for single occupancy
Tour flights depart from Grand Rapids. Flights from other cities can be arranged for an additional $75 fee (and possibly difference in airfare); note this on your registration and Witte Travel can provide assistance after booking.
Travel insurance is available through TravelEx for an additional fee; please .
More Information
Available in early July: Download the tour brochure for a complete itinerary and full tour details and register online via Witte Travel. The tour is planned for 30 participants.
Calvin tours are open to any friends of CALL and the Calvin Alumni Association who wish to travel with us. Explore other Calvin-sponsored tours, too!