Classical Heritage Trail 

Have you ever wondered what we do in Classical Studies? Classical Studies refers to the study of the cultures of the past during the classical period, namely ancient Greece and ancient Rome. In class, we study the fascinating stories and works of the renowned playwrights, leaders, and figures of the Greco-Roman classical period. We explore the parallels between today’s world, and the ongoing influence of the classical past which can be observed all around us. On Friday July 18, we headed off on a heritage trail around Melbourne. 

Our Year 11 Classics class spent the day walking around the city, looking for traces of classical heritage in Melbourne. Our route took us all around, walking and tramming from destination to destination. We stopped at the Ian Potter Museum façade at Melbourne University, The Legend of Fire mural in Albert Street and Parliament House to look at the Greek-inspired columns, interrupting a bridal photoshoot, but considering the Greco-Roman influences on architecture and implications of democracy.

Next, we made our way to the Shrine of Remembrance, where Bastille Day ceremonies were taking place. The Shrine is an enormous memorial, with the architecture inspired by the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and the Roman Pantheon. 

With some interludes at the NGV and the Ian Potter Centre, we walked to our final stop of the day – Stalactites Restaurant for some family dinner (class lunch). The day was concluded with free dips and pita, and whatever Greek food our hearts desired.

Maya Bowditch and Phaidon Dickinson