What does it mean to embark on your own Grand Tour?

To answer this question, I think we need a brief history lesson!

The Grand Tour was an individual journey through Italy which many renowned artists, poets, writers, and established members of society (William Turner, Mary Shelley, and Louisa May Alcott to name a few) would embark on between the 17th and 19th centuries. The Grand Tour would usually endure for three months to a year’s length with multiple stops along the way to learn about culture, art, architecture, literature, etc. While part of the motivation for this journey was to become established and elevated in society, another purpose (and arguably a more important one) was to inspire ambition and creativity within.

Nestled within the Grand Tour route, just outside of Rome and along the Via Appia (the Appian Way) lies Ariccia. While many may assume this little town was just a place to rest your head for the night and move on in the morning, Ariccia was actually a beloved place of respite for Grand Tourists. This town set on a hill provided an escape from the city and connection to the natural landscape with its ethereal light and expansive views.

Grand Tourists found great inspiration in Ariccia, and their artistic works, explorations, and intellectual thoughts began to flourish. And through this growth, Ariccia became a gathering place for tourists and locals to cultivate new works, actively listen and engage, and uplift one another to further improve as creative individuals.

And this still holds true today. Ariccia is a place of respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Away from the tourists (and the heat). A place to connect with nature but also gather with one another. A place where people listen and exchange stories and ideas. A place that encourages quality over quantity, rest over busyness, and understanding who you are rather than what you do. While the town may be small, it does not confine. It greets you with open arms and allows you to grow.

This is the whole point of a Grand Tour. To venture to places which allows you to flourish.

So, what does it mean to embark on your own Grand Tour in today’s world?

If you had asked me a month ago, I would have said that the purpose of a modern Grand Tour is to explore the top sites in Italy. Visiting the Trevi Fountain and having a Lizzie McGuire moment in Rome, seeing Michelangelo’s David in Florence, and going for a picture-perfect gondola ride in Venice.

But I think we just learned the true answer to this question has greater depth.

Of course, you should say hello to David in Florence and throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain in Rome. There is something quite amazing about experiencing something you have learned about in history class or seen in the movies come to life in full scale! But remember to also take time to savor the small spots along the way. Seek out (or wander to) the places which appear still. These could be empty cobblestone streets away from the tourists, small artisan shops with quality products, a small town next to a big city, or a quiet cafe serving swan cappuccinos. Whatever draws your eye and captivates your interest, go to it.

And once you get there, take the time to truly immerse yourself. Have conversations, both deep and brief, with locals and those passing by. It is amazing the depth of conversation that will come when you make the effort to carry it beyond a simple “buongiorno” (hello). Ask questions about the local culture, history, and cuisine. Try a new dish. Observe local art. And challenge yourself to learn.

This is what I have learned over the past month of living in Ariccia. While my Grand Tour includes some famous sites, the memories I will cherish the most are the conversations and experiences held in the quiet corners along the way.

So I now encourage you to embark on your own Grand Tour, whether that be in Italy or wherever you find yourself in this moment. Take the time to stop and savor all that surrounds you. Connect and gather with the local people and listen to their stories (and share yours too!). These moments will lead to flourishing, and your Grand Tour will be a great success.

Best,

Virginia Macoy