The University of Barcelona (UB), the top-ranked institution in Spain and a leader in Mediterranean studies, offers the intensive summer course “Roman and Medieval Barcelona.” This program provides a focused, high-impact exploration of the city’s first millennium, tracing its journey from a strategic Roman colonial outpost to a powerful medieval maritime capital. Designed for students of archaeology, history, and classical studies, the course breaks the boundaries of the classroom, using the city’s ancient stones as a primary source. Participants engage in a curated blend of academic seminars and on-site field studies within the city’s historic core. While the university provides the elite academic instruction, Edulux Summer manages the high-end logistics and travel services required for your stay.
What You’ll Learn (at University of Barcelona)
-
The Foundations of Barcino: Analyzing the Roman urban planning of the 1st century BC, including the defensive walls, the forum, and the Temple of Augustus.
-
Late Antiquity & Transition: Investigating the transformation of the city during the fall of the Roman Empire and the arrival of the Visigoths.
-
The Rise of the Gothic Quarter: A deep dive into the 13th and 14th centuries, examining the construction of the Cathedral and the Palau Reial Major.
-
Medieval Maritime Power: Exploring Barcelona’s role as the administrative and economic heart of the Crown of Aragon and its influence across the Mediterranean.
-
Archaeological Methodology: Developing the skills to identify Roman vs. Medieval masonry and understanding the “layering” of urban history.
-
On-Site Field Study: Engaging in guided analysis of the Roman city walls, the subterranean ruins at MUHBA, and the intricate streets of the Barri Gòtic.
Our Travel & Experience Services
We manage the journey and the experience so you can focus on the mysteries of the ancient past:
-
Cultural & Heritage Tours: Exclusive guided visits to the Roman aqueducts, the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, and the medieval Jewish Quarter (El Call).
-
Ticketing & Flights: Full management of your round-trip airfare and international travel itinerary into Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN).
-
Guaranteed Housing: Vetted student apartments or high-end boutique living arrangements in prime locations like the historic center or the elegant Eixample.
-
Visa & Insurance: Professional guidance on Spanish/Schengen entry requirements and comprehensive travel health coverage for the duration of the course.
-
Local Transfers: Seamless airport pickup via private car and support for all official off-campus academic and archaeological site visits.