Towering temples, amazing amphitheatres and ornate villas were on the itinerary during the recent Classics trip to Sicily.

Led by Head of Classics at Monmouth School for Girls, Mrs Beech, pupils experienced a whirlwind, once in a lifetime tour of ancient Classical sites during the week-long trip, which took place over the half term holidays.

Destinations included touring the Valley of the Temples, the Roman Villa at Piazza Armerina, excursions to Mount Etna and Syracuse, plus a guided walking tour of Palermo.

Mrs Beech described how students were fascinated by what they saw, and explained how the ancient civilisations and cultures were really brought to life for the students by the trip. She said: “There was so much to see in Sicily! We had a totally packed programme …if I had to pick a favourite day, it would be the visit to Segasta in the morning for the wonderfully atmospheric temple and theatre, followed by a delicious lunch of pasta, ice-cream and other local delicacies, then off to Selinunte, a vast site by the sea with a great array of Greek temples.”

Pupil Nora added: “My favourite part of the trip was visiting the city of Siracusa, with its archaeological park and pretty old town.”

In addition to the action-packed schedule, students also had the opportunity to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, with a trip to the beach and a relaxing yoga session among the free-time activities.

Delicious meals were also enjoyed by all, with pupil Faye commenting on her favourites: “Pasta, pasta, pasta! Spaghetti with clams and ice-cream were a particular highlight.”