Day 2: Macerata – quakes, history, culture and sport!

14 april 2026

Tuesday offered another rich and memorable chapter in our Erasmus+ experience in Macerata.

The day began in the beautiful Piazza della Libertà, where we gathered before splitting into three groups to explore Italian culture in greater depth. A key focus of the morning was understanding the lasting impact of earthquakes on the region. Students learned about the extensive and meticulous restoration work required after the major earthquake of 2010, which struck at 6.0 on the Richter scale. Remarkably, seismic activity remains a reality here, with another tremor recorded just two months ago, measuring 4.3, despite occurring some 160 kilometres away.

One of the highlights was our visit to Palazzo Costa, a five-floor palace currently undergoing careful and detailed renovation. Students saw first-hand how history and modern engineering come together, as specialists work to restore intricate frescoes and architectural details while reinforcing the structure against future earthquakes. Innovative ‘L’-shaped structural supports have been introduced to ensure the building moves as a single unit during seismic activity. Beneath the palace, the original caves once used to house horses have also been preserved, along with historic wells that have now been stabilised and restored.

We then continued to Palazzo Buonaccorsi, where students deepened their appreciation of fine art. The palace’s stunning murals and frescoes, inspired by Aeneid by Virgil, brought classical stories vividly to life. In the cellar, an impressive collection of historic horse-drawn carriages offered a glimpse into the city’s past and its traditions.

A visit to the municipal library provided yet another moment of awe. Housed in a beautifully preserved historic setting, the library features ancient bookcases designed by the Jesuits and filled with volumes dating back to the early 16th century. The richly decorated spines and timeless atmosphere gave the space a magical, almost storybook quality, enhanced further by the spectacular views from the top floor, stretching towards the Adriatic Sea on a clear day.

After lunch, the focus shifted from culture to sport. In the afternoon, students took part in a dynamic softball session led by Italian coaches, supported by two professional American baseball players and a Cuban pitcher. It was a truly international experience, combining teamwork, skill development and plenty of energy, and a fantastic way to connect with our hosts beyond the classroom.

Another inspiring day of learning, discovery and collaboration, showcasing the many dimensions of our Erasmus+ journey.