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What is the GrandTour?

The Grand Tour was an extended journey across continental Europe, undertaken by wealthy young aristocrats starting in the 17th century. Its purpose was to refine their knowledge and education, with a circular route beginning and ending in the same city.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • A Journey of Months or Years
    The duration of this adventure varied greatly, ranging from a few months to several years.
    During the Grand Tour, young travelers immersed themselves in the politics, culture, art, and antiquities of Europe. Their days were filled with sightseeing, studying, and shopping.
    Italy, with its legacy of Ancient Rome and stunning monuments, became one of the most popular destinations. English travelers, in particular, found inspiration not only in the relics of antiquity but also in the works of Palladio and the emerging Neoclassical style.

    "The only way for us to become great, or even inimitable if possible, is to imitate the Greeks."
    — Johann Winckelmann, 1755

  • The Final Destination: Italy or Greece
    Italy was the primary destination of the Grand Tour, though Greece was occasionally included for those seeking to explore the roots of Western civilization. Along the way, travelers acquired art and antiques according to their means and explored renowned archaeological sites, such as the ruins of Rome, Pompeii, and Herculaneum, rediscovered during that era.
    Art students from across Europe also flocked to Italy, eager to learn from ancient masterpieces.

  • Rome: An Open-Air Museum
    Rome was the centerpiece of the Grand Tour, drawing painters, sculptors, and writers from all over the world. The city's streets, such as Via del Babuino and Via Condotti, were lined with artisan workshops frequented by travelers. Archaeological discoveries in Pompeii and Herculaneum became sources of immense artistic inspiration.

A Cultural Phenomenon

By the 19th century, participating in the Grand Tour had become a rite of passage for most educated young men. Over time, it also gained popularity among young women, reflecting a shift in societal norms and expectations.

A Journey to Italy with the Unmarried Aunt

Serving as a chaperone, an unmarried aunt often accompanied young aristocratic women during their educational travels. This custom was part of the formation of high-society ladies.

The term Grand Tour is believed to have first appeared in An Italian Voyage by Richard Lassels, published in 1698. However, the craze for the Grand Tour is often traced back to the success of Thomas Coryat’s book, Coryat’s Crudities.

One of the most celebrated Grand Tour journeys was undertaken by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who traveled through Italy between 1786 and 1788. He documented his experiences in the renowned travel diary Italian Journey.


MEDUSA - GRANDTOUR - GOETHE

Countless writers and poets embarked on adventurous journeys through Italy, often venturing as far as Sicily. Among them was Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who undertook his Grand Tour between 1786 and 1788, later documenting his experiences in the renowned travel diary Italian Journey.

Other notable figures associated with the Grand Tour include:

  • Michel de Montaigne – Philosopher and writer.
  • Johann Winckelmann – Archaeologist and art historian.
  • Marie-Henri Beyle (Stendhal) – Novelist and cultural critic.
  • Maximilien Misson – Author of Nouveau Voyage d’Italie.
  • Mariana Starke – Travel guide author.
  • Georges Bizet – Composer.

The Grand Tour captivated many prominent individuals, inspiring memorable quotes such as:

  • “A man who has not been in Italy is always conscious of an inferiority.”
    Samuel Johnson

  • “The only way for us to become great, or even inimitable if possible, is to imitate the ancients.”
    Johann Winckelmann

 

The Journey of the Grand Tour

The 18th century was a time of significant discoveries, new knowledge, and a renewed curiosity and admiration for the past. During this period, Italy—and Rome in particular—experienced a unique golden age, becoming an international cultural benchmark.

Scholars, artisans, young travelers, and enthusiasts from across the continent flocked to Italy to explore the remnants of classical antiquity, immerse themselves in its culture, understand its politics, observe its customs, and master its arts.

ROME – A MODEL IN SCALE

Rome stood as the centerpiece of the Grand Tour, offering an unparalleled opportunity to study the grandeur of ancient civilization and its enduring influence on modern Europe.

This cultural journey, known as the Grand Tour, fostered an atmosphere of exchange and interconnectedness that inspired generations of artists. It also led to the establishment of numerous art schools and the first academies of fine arts.

Travelers often purchased objects and works of art as mementos of this profound experience. These pieces were crafted by both Italian and foreign artists who, alongside traditional artisan workshops, studied the era's most renowned masterpieces to create new Neoclassical works and an incredible variety of artistic objects. Every visitor sought to take home at least one of these coveted souvenirs.

"GrandTour Collection: Handcrafted Italian Jewelry Inspired by Rome's Timeless Heritage"

Travelers often purchased objects and works of art as mementos of this profound experience. These pieces were crafted by both Italian and foreign artists who, alongside traditional artisan workshops, studied the era's most renowned masterpieces to create new Neoclassical works and an incredible variety of artistic objects. Every visitor sought to take home at least one of these coveted souvenirs.

Discover the entire GrandTour Collection jewelry line, where tradition meets innovation in handcrafted, Italian-made cultural treasures, inspired by Rome's timeless heritage.