Archadia and MAC: New Architecture Schools Launch in Venice and Val d'Orcia

Two new architecture schools, Archadia and MAC, will open in early 2023 in Venice and Val d'Orcia, Tuscany. Founded by architect Edoardo Milesi, they evolve from SPdA-Scuola Permanente dell'Abitare. Archadia is located on San Servolo island in Venice, while MAC (Monte Antico Castle) is in the Grosseto countryside. The schools offer a unique master's program with a strong humanistic approach, open to graduates from any discipline, not just architecture. The curriculum integrates art, theater, and music, taught by a diverse faculty including geographer Franco Farinelli, sociologist Giandomenico Amendola, art critic Cristina Muccioli, composer Marco Giommoni, urbanist Leonardo Ciacci, archaeologist Stefano Campana, economist Stefano Monti, playwright Manfredi Rutelli, and theologian Don Roberto Tagliaferri. The program focuses on contemporary issues like ecological transition, sustainable economy, mass tourism, and PNRR projects. A key workshop will study the regeneration of the former Ospedale al mare on Lido, a 230,000-square-meter abandoned area with 30 buildings. SPdA also runs Ocra in Montalcino, hosting a summer school "Architetture di passaggio" from July 25-30, open to third-year university students, graduates, and professionals under 35, with scholarships available.