Day 7 in Italy: June 17, 2025

Dr. Cook - Reflection on the day:

“I suppose we go out to sea because we want, eventually, to come home. I know this now, but it was new to me then. The best way to experience home is to lose it for a while. Then, when it is gone, you can know what it is.” ~ Colum McCann, Twist

Today as our trip comes to a close and we turn toward home, I was reminded of these words that I read on the bus ride to Venice. Although the author speaks of going to sea; the words resonate with any traveler. I find myself in the “I know this now” stage of life, but I know travel of this kind is still so new to the students who joined me on this trip.

We conquered the chaos of Rome, we braved and endured the heat of Florence, and we revelled in the serenity of Venice (aptly called la Serenissima). Each day brought its challenges, each day its victories. We were incredibly fortunate to have an exceptionally beautiful last day in Venice. 

It began with a mass in an extraordinary church and a homily that spoke (in Italian) to the current troubles of the world; with the words of St. Paul, the priest encouraged us to always be grateful for the gift that God has given us, to love all those whom God loves, and treat each other as brothers and sisters in Christ. After an afternoon exploring the islands and the crafts of Venice, we were treated to a delicious dinner, an evening passeggiata through the city with gelato in hand, and a sunset over St. Mark’s square so beautiful that even our Venetian tour manager Anna took photos of it. 

We couldn’t have asked for a more wonderful last day. Now, we look forward to home.

Angelina Squillante - Basilica San Marco:

We woke up ready to start our last day with breakfast and a boat ride to Piazza San Marco. The day began with mass at the Basilica of San Marco. This Basilica is a remarkable church that was originally built in the 9th century AD after St. Mark’s body was moved to Venice from Egypt. This church was damaged and entirely rebuilt in the 11th century AD and it continued to be decorated for centuries to come. For example, the spoils were brought back from Constantinople after Venice sacked it in the Fourth Crusade in the early 13th century. Being inside the church, we were able to admire these decorations such as the gold mosaics, which were created over centuries and which depicted biblical stories from the New and Old Testament. The other features such as the marble floors, and the rustic architecture contribute to the beauty and unique aesthetic of this Basilica, which allowed the historical development and culture to shine. The mass was held at a high altar that honored the icon of the Virgin Mary that was one of the spoils from Constantinople. We were all left with an inspiring and unforgettable experience being able to experience a mass in such a beautiful country, church, and different language.

Dana Rickens and Grace Connolly - The islands: Murano, Burano, and Torcello:

In the afternoon, we ventured away from Venice and to the beautiful islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. During our time at Murano we went to see a glass blowing demonstration. Glass blowing is an extremely important part of Murano’s history as they began to produce glass products in the 13th century. At the time Venice was the only area in Europe that had glass blown products which made keeping the secret as to how they create their products that much more important. Next we ventured across the water to Burano, famous for its lace-makers and fishermen, for lunch and some shopping. We were able to try an assortment of sea food, Burano’s specialty, and shop in various local stores. Our last stop was to Torcello where we visited the oldest church in Venice, Santa Maria Assunta. The church was built in the 600s and is known for its beautiful mosaic mural, including a series dedicated to the Last Judgment. We were fortunate to walk up and see beautiful views of Venice from the church’s bell tower. Today was an unforgettable experience and an amazing way to end our trip to Italy!

Buonanotte, Venezia! See you tomorrow, USA!