The objectives of this course are twofold. On one hand, it will highlight and investigate significant architecture, landscapes, and urban forms in the history of Florence. On the other, it will explore the critical role these spatial manifestations have played in the formulation of creative strategies of Modernity - - roughly the period between the mid-18th century and the second half of the 20th century. The course begins with a study of the origins of the city from Etruscan and Roman times, continues with the Medieval and Early Renaissance contexts, and concludes with the emergence of the High Renaissance.

The course includes field trips (two Saturdays and three week days) to relevant sites related to the theme of the course, i.e., Certosa d'Ema, San Gimignano, Volterra, Bagno Vignoni, Fiesole, San Miniato, and San Galgano Abbey.