From Barcelona, you will travel to Córdoba, capital of the Córdoba Caliphate in the 10th century and the center of scholarship and scientific study during the Islamic Golden Age in Spain. Here your professors will guide you through the magnificent examples of Moorish architecture like the Mezquita or subsequent Spanish derivations like the Royal Alázar. In Córdoba, you’ll also dive into the intricate art of mudéjar wood detailing, a traditional craft that blends Christian and Muslim influences and can be seen in many of the region's historic buildings.

Stopping en route near Seville, you’ll meet with one of the region's many local craftsmen dedicated to the building arts where you’ll learn the techniques that have shaped Spain's architectural and artistic history. 

In Cádiz, you’ll explore the city’s rich maritime history and stunning miradores (watch towers), which offer spectacular views of the coast. Here, you will also have the chance to participate in a woodworking workshop, gaining insight into the region’s long-standing carpentry traditions. Alongside these artisan experiences, you’ll enjoy a sherry tasting, visit the historic Cádiz Cathedral, and explore the Cámara oscura de Tavira, a unique optical device that offers a 360-degree view of the city. At the mid-way point of your journey, you'll have a free day to relax at the beach or continue to explore the city in small groups with your professors.

Departing from Cadiz you'll head north, returning to Seville for a free morning of exploration. The heart of Andalusia, you will explore the legendary Royal Alcázar and Seville Cathedral, where centuries of history come to life. You’ll also visit the Tomb of Christopher Columbus and delve into the intricate world of imagineros, the skilled religious sculpture carvers who have adorned churches with their masterpieces for generations. Seville offers an immersive experience into the artistry that has defined Spain’s sacred architecture for centuries. This evening you'll arrive in Trujillo in time for a celebratory Spanish meal. 

The following day, you’ll indulge in the Spanish traditions of jamón ibérico, olive oil, wine, and cheese making.  In the picturesque town, you'll also have time to experience Spanish country life or stroll through this picturesque town where you'll uncover the techniques used to create sculptures for churches—a tradition that has endured for centuries.

Departing Extremaduring you’ll head north to Segovia where you’ll take the afternoon to discover the grandeur of one of the largest surviving Roman aqueducts and explore the impressive Alcázar, the summer residence of Spanish monarchs.

Finally, your journey concludes in Madrid, the capital of Spain where you'll revisit many of the threads that constitute the tapestry of Spanish culture, history, and art. Your first stop on the day of arrival will be the Universidad Politecnica de Madrid. 

Under the direction of your professors, you'll visit the Prado Museum, home to some of the most significant works of Western art, and explore the grand Royal Palace, the former residence of the Hapsburg dynasty where you'll walk through the history of building arts and masterpieces of stone, iron, wood, plaster, and gilding. 

As you explore Madrid with your professors, you’ll learn about Spanish renaissance art as well as  the profound influence of the Moors on Spanish culture, from the intricacies of mudéjar design to the iconic arches and tilework that define Spain’s architectural landscape.