Experience
Deadline Application:
Note: This course will be conducted in Dutch only.
Join us for a four-day retreat to Florence, Italy – the historic birthplace of the Renaissance and home to notable figures such as Niccolò Machiavelli and Baldassare Castiglione. Renowned for its political intrigue and cultural rebirth, Florence provides the perfect backdrop for an in-depth exploration of Machiavelli’s The Prince and Castiglione’s The Book of the Courtier. While both texts ostensibly offer guidance on effective leadership, their philosophies diverge sharply. In particular, Machiavelli presents a revolutionary perspective that not only shakes the foundations of Florence and Italy but also reshapes the entire Western world.
With a select group of like-minded professionals, guided by a distinguished professor, you’ll delve deeply into these texts, engage in vibrant discussions, and reflect on life’s most meaningful questions. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to step back from the bustle of everyday life, gain fresh insights, and recharge in inspiring Florentine settings.
Thursday, September 25, 2025: The program begins in the afternoon with an introductory session. You’ll meet your fellow participants and professor, who will provide an overview of the texts (which you will have read in preparation for the trip). The evening will conclude with our first Italian dinner of the retreat.
Friday & Saturday: These days are dedicated to an in-depth study of the texts. We will guide you to various locations throughout Florence, where your professor will lead two intensive seminars daily – one in the morning and another in the afternoon. Between sessions, we’ll enjoy an extended lunch. The evenings are then yours to spend as you wish, whether to explore the city further or unwind at your own pace. Each day will conclude with a group dinner.
Sunday, September 28, 2025: The final day begins with a slightly later morning seminar and continued study of the texts. The retreat concludes with a closing lunch, where we will share insights from and reflections on the retreat. Following lunch, transportation will be provided to the airport for your return journey.
During this trip we will read:
De Heerser by Niccolo Machiavelli
Het boek van de hoveling by Baldassar Castiglione.
These readings will be provided and will be sent to you in advance.
Read our frequently asked questions here.
Not sure if this course is the right fit for you? Schedule a call with our dean Gerard Versluis to discuss your options.
Phone: +31 (0)71 303 19 90
Email: professionals@pascalinstitute.com
- Socrates, in Plato’s Apology.
The Pascal Experience is designed for professionals across all disciplines seeking to engage in life’s most meaningful questions. No specific prior knowledge or education is required.
The Pascal Experience will be attended by a small group 8-10 students, one professor and one supporting staff member.
The Pascal Experience Florence will start on Thursday September 25, 2025 in the afternoon and will conclude on Sunday September 28 around 14:30.
The Pascal Experience Florence costs €2.195,-.
The following is included in the price of the Pascal Experience:
Your travel to and from the destination city is not included in this price and will not be provided by the Pascal Institute.
At the Pascal Institute, we are dedicated to delivering the finest liberal arts education aimed at cultivating profound thinking and wise judgment. You are challenged by great thinkers such as Homer, Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Aquinas, Machiavelli, Galileo, Shakespeare, Pascal, Newton, and many more.
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