Part of the beauty of enrolling in a Community Engagement Practicum (CEP), is how interactive and immersive each aspect of the course can be. This was especially evident when Saketh Mandayam (Rutgers University) and Madison Pugh (University of Virginia) led a guided tour of the rooms and secret passages inside Palazzo Vecchio as part of their midterm exam.

Instructed by Prof. Arch. Stefano Corazzini, MUSM/CEP Tour Guiding for Palazzo Vecchio allows students to gain an intimate understanding of this iconic Florentine monument. Located in Piazza della Signoria in Florence, Palazzo Vecchio has served as the seat of Florence’s government for over seven centuries.

To learn more about the course and its outcomes, we interviewed Professor Corazzini and Serena Giorgi, ISI Florence Coordinator for Practicums and Community Engagement.

Corazzini explained that the internship has a twofold purpose. During the first part of the semester, students gain a deeper knowledge of one of the most important Florentine monuments, Palazzo Vecchio, rich in both art and history. After the break, students learn to lead art history tours and develop skills to communicate effectively with a varied audience ranging from kids to senior tourists.

Serena Giorgi expressed her awe at the tour she had the privilege of attending. Saketh and Madison led the group through the rooms, explaining the art, history, and architecture of this incredible palace. They provided interesting facts while also giving details of real life and everyday habits.

“I was impressed by the confidence both Saketh and Madison displayed, considering they had only started this internship a month ago. Each student had their unique perspective and their own way of delivering the material which made the tour even more interesting. We explored the political chambers and the Medici’s private rooms. But, the room that impressed me the most was the Room of Maps with ancient geographical maps depicting the known world at that time. Through a secret passage, hidden behind one of the maps, we were led onto an amazing, secluded terrace where we took some lovely pictures. Thank you, Saketh and Madison, for the amazing tour you gave!”