Padua Travels: Iceland and European Trips

Padua Students Experience Powerful Lessons on European Journey

This summer, thirteen Padua students embarked on a meaningful and fast-paced educational journey through Europe, exploring Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic. The trip offered a deep dive into history, culture, and faith as the group moved through four major cities, each rich with significance and new experiences.

After a layover in London’s Heathrow Airport, the group landed in Berlin, Germany. There, students visited several historical sites, including the Jewish Museum, which featured innovative and thought-provoking exhibits; the Topography of Terror, which documents the rise of the Nazi regime and its impact on Europe; and Checkpoint Charlie, a symbol of the Cold War and the divided Berlin of the past. While in Berlin, students also had their first taste of traditional German cuisine, which featured plenty of meat and potatoes—a cultural experience in itself!

Next, the group boarded a train to Warsaw, Poland—marking the longest train ride many of the students had ever taken. In Warsaw, they explored a city that had been nearly destroyed during World War II but was lovingly and meticulously rebuilt, especially the historic Old Town. Students learned about Poland’s deeply rooted Catholic faith, visible in the many churches, shrines, and public displays of devotion. A walking tour through the former Warsaw Ghetto offered a sobering look at the city’s Jewish history and the bravery of the resistance fighters. Students also visited the Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews, where a self-guided tour and an excellent meal in the museum cafeteria added both depth and comfort to the experience.

From Warsaw, the Pandas traveled south to Krakow, a city miraculously spared from destruction during the war. Highlights included climbing to the top of Wawel Cathedral’s bell tower, marveling at the ornate interior of Saint Mary’s Church, and exploring the lively main square and Jewish quarter. A particularly moving part of the journey was the group’s visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. Guided by a local expert, students walked the grounds of the former Nazi death camp and reflected on the weight of its history and the millions of lives lost. Later that day, they unexpectedly encountered a Corpus Christi procession in Krakow—an inspiring and beautiful public display of faith that left a strong impression on the group.

The final stop on the journey was Prague, Czech Republic. This vibrant city, with its mix of Gothic, Baroque, and modern architecture, offered stunning views, historic cathedrals, and bustling city life. Students admired the iconic Charles Bridge, visited synagogues and historic government buildings, and took in sweeping views of the Vltava River and the city's skyline.

Throughout the trip, students navigated different languages, currencies, and customs while gaining a deeper appreciation for European history, the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of faith and culture. They returned home not just with souvenirs and photos, but with lasting memories, new friendships, and a broader understanding of the world.

We’re incredibly proud of our traveling Pandas for embracing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with open minds and open hearts