OTRANTO SCHOOL: THE SCHOOL OF ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE

OtrantoSchool - language school and Italian culture
Via Vittorio Emanuele n . 10- 73028
Otranto (LE )
Tel . & Fax : +39 0836 802 203

Otranto School offered the possibility of studying Italian language in one of the most striking place of Italy: Otranto. This was the schools website for a number of years.

Otranto is situated between the so called “Valle dell’Idro” and the Adriatic Sea.It is one of the most coveted destinations in the word thanks to its low key tourist resorts and to its beautiful coastline.
The friendly atmosphere, the beautiful landscape, the artistic resources made students' stay a wonderful experience. My daughter attended the school during her gap year before she attended college. When I told her I had bought the domain for the Otranto School when I discovered that it was available, she was pleased. She had a great experience traveling around Europe and spending several months at the school.

The content below is from the site's 2006-2007 archived content. There are several language schools in Apulia, Otranto, and the surrounding area if this site's information inspires you.

Here, visitors come from every part of the word for studying Italian language and its culture.

OUR METHODS

Our teaching method is based on the development of language skills without ignoring grammatical aspects.

This method can be defined:

• FLEXIBLE: because it conforms itself to foreign students requirements.
• INNOVATIVE: because it is different from classical methods for using original examples, explanations and speeches.
• STIMULATING: because it renders the study of grammar and culture very interesting and not boring.

CLASSROOM AND STUDENTS

In each classroom there is a maximum of 8 students and a minimum of 4, but often they consist of 7/8 students.

In each classroom there are students with the same level of knowledge of Italian Language.
Students come from different countries creating an international atmosphere that allows an interesting cultural exchange.

TEACHERS

Our teachers are native language teachers and have a great teaching experience. They follow students individually and carefully giving them great availability. Their lessons will be interesting, dynamic, original thanks to the various educational materials and audiovisual media used.

 

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Otranto School evaluates an entrance test carefully.

It gives the possibility of making up homogeneous classes on the basis of students language skills and motivations.

We have organized a large number of courses. A new idea for students is the "Holiday Course". It is a basic course which allows students to learn important grammatical aspects of Italian language and also gives them the possibility of studying Italian Culture and Civilization.

Otranto is an important historic and artistic centre. Much of its appeal lies with the culture, history, traditions and gastronomy of Apulia. Otranto is about 50 km from the city of Lecce which is often referred to as the Florence of South of Italy.

 

HOLIDAY COURSE (C.V.)

Its purpose is that of developping students language skills without ignoring Italian Culture and Civilization.

(3 hours a day for 5 days a week)

 

BASIC COURSE ( C.B.)

This course combines grammar and structural aspects of Italian language with the development of students language skills.

(4 hours a day for 5 days a week)

 

INTENSIVE COURSE (C.I.)

Its purpose is similar to that of Basic Course with a more intensive study programme. In addition to the morning class lasting 4 hours this course provides an afternoon class lasting 2 hours for a more in-depth study of grammar.

(6 hours a day, 4 of which in the morning and 2 in the afternoon)

 

GRAMMAR COURSE ( C.G.)

This course is addressed to people who can speak Italian but need a more in-depth Knowledge of its grammar rules.

(2 hours a day for 5 days a week)

 

CONVERSATION COURSE ( C.C.)

This course is suitable for people who want to put their knowledge of grammar rules in practice.

(2 hours a day for 5 days a week)

 

INDIVIDUAL COURSE( C.IN.)

This course concentrates its attention on students who have a personal programme based on their specific needs or requirements.

(the number of hours is left to student discretion)

 

ELEMENTARY

• Knowledge of the Italian basic grammar which allows communication.
• Making practical examples of real situations that occur in everyday life (e.g. Bars, restaurants, shops, offices.)
• Putting in practice what students have learned through mini-dialogues useful to face up to everyday life

 

INTERMEDIATE

• Development of the basic grammar rules.
• Knowledge of more complex grammatical aspects.
• Putting in practice what students have learned about everyday life and also about more complex arguments like culture or history

 

MIDDLE ADVANCE

• Development of the grammar rules that have been learned.
• Development of more complex grammatical aspects .
• Development of students language skills through oral exposition of personal ideas or typical themes like “ The description of the differences between Italy and their native country….”

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OTRANTO

THE TOWN: On the Adriatic Coast, in the eastern part of Italy, in the heart of Mediterranean, there is Otranto, whose fabric shows the signs and the traces of a millenary history. In this context it is important to mention:

The so called “ Grotte del Cervo” (deer caves) as a testimony of the Neolithic age; the megaliths and the ruins of the old inhabitants of Messapia, Japigia, Salento, and Calabria which were collectively named after “Terra d’Otranto” (Land of Otranto) in the 4th century; and the mysterious “Pelasgi” (old inhabitants of Greece) whose name derives from Greek language, from the words “water” and “mountain”.

Moreover, the cathedral links up the East and the West parts marking the metaphysical centre. Inside of it a beautiful mosaic floor and a sumptuous “Arbor Vitae” full of lay and religious symbols, determine its incomparable artistic and historic value.

Otranto with its culture, its history and its natural beauties offers to its visitors a wonderful landscape and a seascape which can not leave them cold.

THE COAST: its characteristic is its variety. In fact, in this part of the Adriatic coast you can find large white beaches or small inlets characterized by the presence of the Mediterranean maquis, or places where the coast is hight and rocky and where the falaise dives into the sea, as well as bays, islets, stacks and caves.

Northward, there is “Frassanito” with a thick pinewood, and “Alimini”, where, among its downs there are the “Crigni” which are black veins in the sand, printed by charcoal. Alìmini or Alimìni, is a name which probably derives from Greek, it would be equivalent to the Latin “sal stat”, or could derive from “limne” that means “watertight” and this would refer to the presence of two lakes: “Fontanelle” (springs of fresh water) and “Alimini”.

Here there are some of the most striking places of this area:

“Baia dei Turchi” (Turk’s bay) : a series of small mortises that hide beaches which were in the past landing-places.
“Mulino d’Acqua” (Water mill) : a series of small caves, among which there is a bigger one where the vault gave away.
“Grotta Monaca” (Monaca cave): a cave that was characterized in the past by a stalagmite that looked like a nun.

The white lighthouse marks the entrance to the port, while the so called “Bastione dei Pelasgi” marks an insuperable bound. Behind the port there is an old tower called “Torre del serpe” (snake tower) which overflows a hard coast that degrades toward the so called “Baia delle Orte”.

At “Orte” that derives from the word “Ortos” where the sun rises, there is the so called “ Capo di Otranto” (Otranto cape) with its lighthouse. Behind it there is “ Sant’Emiliano”, an inlet characterized by its limpid water and by the presence of a small islet in the middle. From here we arrive to “Porto Badisco” , where according to the poet Virgilio, Enea landed.

In this part of Italy, a series of wonderful and striking places with their history and their nature allow the visitors to have a wonderful and unforgettable experience.

Getting to OTRANTO
By air 
The nearest airports to Otranto are those of Bari and Brindisi directed by SEAP, Airport Authority of Puglia. Alitalia assures direct flies from and to Rome and Milan.

By car 
The motorways that cover Puglia are the “A14 – Adriatica” motorway and “A16 Napoli-Bari” one.
Follow the “Adriatica” motorway to Bari and then follow the “Bari-Brindisi-Lecce” highway.
When you will be arrived to Lecce follow the “ Tangenziale Est” or “Tangenziale Ovest” and then go towards Santa Maria di Leuca . After 30 Km you will find the road that leads to Otranto.

By train 
Trains coming from North Italy stops at Foggia, Bari, Brindisi and Lecce.
Moreover, “Sud-Est” lines link up Lecce to Otranto.

By coach
“Marozzi” coaches leave from Rome to Otranto and Lecce more than once a day.
There is a coach line leaving from Pisa at 19.00 p.m. and arriving to Lecce at 8.30 a.m. and to Otranto at 9.30 a.m.

 

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More Background On The Otranto Italian Language & Culture School

Otranto School, nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Otranto in the Puglia region of Italy, is a renowned institution dedicated to teaching the Italian language and immersing students in the vibrant culture of the region. With its rich history, stunning location, and innovative teaching methods, Otranto School stands out as a prime destination for language learners seeking an enriching educational experience.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Otranto, often hailed as one of Italy's most charming towns, boasts a history that dates back to ancient times. The town's strategic location on the Adriatic coast has made it a focal point of historical events, including the tragic Ottoman invasion of 1480, where many locals were martyred. These historical narratives are woven into the cultural fabric of the town, making it an ideal backdrop for studying Italian culture and history.

The town is home to several significant landmarks, such as the Otranto Cathedral with its stunning floor mosaic created by the monk Pantaleone, depicting a Tree of Life and various heraldic and animal images. This cathedral also houses the bones of the 813 martyrs from the Ottoman invasion, displayed in glass cases, adding a poignant touch to the historical exploration of the area.

Educational Philosophy and Course Offerings

Otranto School's educational approach is characterized by flexibility, innovation, and stimulation. The curriculum is designed to cater to the diverse needs of international students, focusing on developing language skills through engaging and practical methods. The courses offered range from basic and intensive language courses to specialized programs such as grammar, conversation, and individual courses tailored to specific needs.

The school's innovative teaching methods incorporate original examples, explanations, and speeches, making the study of grammar and culture interesting and far from monotonous. Classes are kept small, with a maximum of eight students, ensuring personalized attention and fostering an interactive learning environment.

Student Experience and Cultural Immersion

Students at Otranto School benefit from a unique learning experience that extends beyond the classroom. The school emphasizes cultural immersion, encouraging students to engage with the local community and practice their language skills in real-life settings. Otranto's virtually English-free environment provides an undiluted stage for students to practice Italian, enhancing their learning experience through everyday interactions.

The town of Otranto offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Its historic center, with narrow winding streets and ancient buildings, invites exploration. The town's coastline, characterized by crystal-clear waters and scenic beaches, adds to its allure. Students can enjoy guided tours, local festivals, and traditional Italian cuisine, all of which contribute to a holistic cultural experience.

Reviews and Testimonials

Otranto School has received glowing reviews from former students who praise the quality of education, the dedication of the teachers, and the overall experience of living in Otranto. For instance, students have highlighted the effectiveness of the pedagogical methods, the warmth and friendliness of the locals, and the beauty of the Salento region. Reviews often mention the transformative impact of the courses, with many students achieving significant language proficiency and gaining a deep appreciation for Italian culture.

One former student, Emily from the United States, shared her experience: "The Otranto School was a dream come true for me. Not only did I achieve a level of fluency in Italian that I never thought possible, but I also gained a profound understanding and love for the rich cultural heritage of the region. The small class sizes, knowledgeable instructors, and immersive experiences made this more than just a language course; it was a transformative journey."

Another student, Marco from Brazil, echoed similar sentiments: "Attending the Otranto School was one of the best decisions I've ever made. The instructors were incredibly patient and encouraging, and the cultural activities allowed me to fully immerse myself in the local traditions. I left with not only improved language skills but also a deep appreciation for the Italian way of life."

Facilities and Support

The school provides a range of facilities to support students' learning and well-being. These include a library, computer lab, and free Wi-Fi. The small class sizes and individualized attention from native-speaking teachers ensure that each student receives the support they need to succeed. Additionally, the school offers various extracurricular activities such as cooking classes, cultural tours, and social events, enhancing the overall student experience.

Conclusion

Otranto School offers an exceptional opportunity for individuals seeking to learn the Italian language and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Puglia region. With its innovative teaching methods, supportive learning environment, and the captivating charm of Otranto, the school provides a comprehensive and memorable educational experience. Whether for academic purposes, personal enrichment, or simply the love of Italian culture, Otranto School stands out as a premier destination for language learners from around the world.

By blending rigorous academic instruction with cultural immersion and personal attention, Otranto School ensures that students not only learn a new language but also experience the vibrant culture and history of one of Italy's most beautiful coastal towns. This holistic approach makes learning both effective and enjoyable, leaving students with lasting memories and valuable skills.