An Educational Journey Through Europe: A Week of Democracy, Empathy, and Science with Youth—from Rome to San Benedetto del Tronto #IDEALS

#IDEALS Project – From LTTA to Lifelong ImpactOur journey through the LTTA (Learning, Teaching and Training Activity) of our #IDEALS project was more than just a trip between cities—it became a bridge between ideas, cultures, and values. From the historic streets of Rome to the sea-scented shores of San Benedetto del Tronto, we experienced an unforgettable week centered on democracy, empathy, environmental awareness, and youth participation.

Starting Point – A Cultural Encounter in RomeThe two days we spent in Rome before the LTTA offered our students a unique opportunity to explore a city steeped in history, art, and culture. From the Colosseum to the Pantheon, from cobblestone alleys to lively piazzas, this journey through time allowed our young participants to connect with the past and engage with Europe’s shared heritage on a deeper level.

Rome inspired learning not only through its monuments but through its atmosphere. The steps we took there laid a strong foundation for the meaningful experiences that awaited us in San Benedetto.

 

Day 1 – LTTA Begins: Gathering in San Benedetto del Tronto

After Rome, we headed toward the Adriatic coast and arrived in San Benedetto del Tronto.

The LTTA (Learning, Teaching and Training Activity) phase of our IDEALS project officially began. The first day of the program started with an opening ceremony at Liceo Scientifico Statale B. Rosetti.

Students from the Netherlands, Italy, Bulgaria, Romania, and Turkey were welcomed into workshops focused on active youth participation.

In the morning, we visited the Municipality of San Benedetto del Tronto to hear a presentation by the Mayor introducing the city. The program was officially launched with warm speeches from the school principal and the municipal secretary.

The highlight of the day was the “Speak Up for Change!” workshop. During this session, the young participants identified key social issues they wished to address and collaborated in teams to develop creative advocacy campaigns.

Day 2 – Learning with the Sea: Science and Citizenship

Today, we experienced a unique blend of science and civic engagement. In the morning, we gathered at Liceo Scientifico and walked together to the University of San Benedetto.

There, we attended an inspiring seminar led by marine biologist Dr. Martina Capriotti, titled “Citizenship for the Sea: From Scientific Awareness to Social Action.” The session focused on microplastic pollution, environmental awareness, and the role of active citizenship in protecting marine ecosystems.

During the fieldwork segment, students collected samples from the shoreline and later participated in hands-on workshops in the university laboratories. By the end of the day, they had designed creative awareness campaigns aimed at protecting the oceans.

It was a day where science and social responsibility came together seamlessly.

Day 3 – Tracing Time in Ascoli Piceno: Where History Meets Democracy

“When Rome was still a village, Ascoli was already a civilization.” This proud saying by the people of Ascoli Piceno perfectly captured the spirit of the day.

On our third day, we visited Ascoli Piceno, where students followed the traces of history from ancient times to the Middle Ages. Founded by the Piceni people in the 9th century BC and later becoming a Roman municipium, the city still breathes the past through its white travertine stones, Roman bridges, and the stunning Piazza del Popolo.

But this was more than just a city tour. Accompanied by local guides and civic representatives, students observed how public spaces, architecture, and traditions are deeply interwoven with the idea of democracy.

Through landmarks like Palazzo dei Capitani, we explored the themes of active citizenship and social participation. The day reminded us that understanding a society begins with understanding its roots.

Day 4 – Think with Empathy, Act with Empathy

Today was filled with meaningful activities focused on empathy, inclusion, and creative expression. In the morning, students participated in the workshop “Walk in My Shoes – Discovering Life Through Empathy.” They used symbols to represent their daily lives and compared them with peers from different cultures. Through role-play exercises, they reflected on inclusive perspectives and behaviors.

In the afternoon, the “Map of Challenges” workshop encouraged students to identify obstacles to individual and societal participation. They then worked on “bridge posters” to visually present their proposed solutions.

Later, we joined the school’s year-end celebration, where fun, music, and intercultural exchange brought everyone together. Games, laughter, and spontaneous moments of joy made the day even more memorable.

Day 5 – A Heartfelt Closing: Youth Voices, Hope for the Future

On the final day, students gathered at Liceo Scientifico to present the experiences and ideas they had developed throughout the week. From empathy to environmental awareness, from advocacy to active citizenship, their energy and creativity shone through.

A short coffee break followed by the certificate ceremony marked an emotional yet hopeful conclusion to our program. Smiles, thank-yous, heartfelt farewells, and newly formed friendships made this ending feel more like a beginning.

Thank You, San Benedetto!

The LTTA chapter may be over, but the ideas that took root, the international friendships formed, and the awareness gained are only just beginning to grow.Thank you, San Benedetto del Tronto. Until we meet again — in new stories yet to be written.