exploring italy's cultural treasures
About Beautiful Histories
Hello, I'm Shelli: History nerd, art lover, avid reader, and experienced traveler.
For the past few years, I've been helping culture buffs and travelers encounter the art and culture of Italy with wonder and comprehension, deepening their appreciation through education rooted in Italy's unique Christian heritage and the legacy of Western civilization.
Do any of these statements ring true?
You'd love to have a better grasp of the art and history of Italy -- the cradle of the early Church, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and home to la dolce vita.
You want to travel to Italy equipped with a deeper understanding than social media and guidebooks offer, but you don't have time to read a lot of books and scholarly articles.
You want to be able to visit an art museum or old cathedral and actually enjoy it, but you don't know how to "read" the iconography.
Welcome, friend! If any of these describe you, Beautiful Histories was conceived with you in mind. Here's how it all came about . . .
From Disappointment to Discovery: The Beautiful Histories Origin Story
I love the anticipation that comes with planning a dream trip, especially to a place as captivating as Italy. I also know the profound disappointment when that much-anticipated journey falls short. I once invested heavily in what I hoped would be the trip of a lifetime, only to find it stressful, confusing, and ultimately unfulfilling. It left me disappointed and, well, tired.
But then a university course for a study abroad experience in Europe changed everything. We spent an entire semester immersing ourselves in the culture, food, historical events, art, and architecture of our future destination. The preparation itself was a joy, building a rich tapestry of knowledge and anticipation that prolonged and enriched the experience.
When we finally embarked on our trip, it was just magical. Every sight, sound, taste, and touch was amplified by the stories and context I'd learned. I had a familiar connection to the destination even before I arrived. It was a deeply fulfilling experience – the kind of immersive travel that resonated long after I returned home.
Beautiful Histories began with the goal of helping others have similarly fantastic travel experiences. But -- I'm also here for you if you just want a greater understanding of the art and history of Italy without the travel component. Exploring beauty and history is always worthwhile!
"Shelli's love and knowledge of Venice inspired us to learn about and then see the many treasures of the ancient city. She provided an exceptional tour of Venice and the surrounding islands!"
- David and Marilyn H.
Client testimonials
"We wish we'd had her presentations before we went to Europe. We would have understood so much more about the things we saw."
Richard & Becky B.
"I've learned to really look at a piece of art, a building, a place, and understand and appreciate what I'm seeing. Shelli brings life to the information with background about the history of the place or the life of the artist. She also brings a delightful sense of fun and humor to the discussion. These are real places and people, and she makes them come alive."
Sandy C.
Shelli Lott
beautiful histories
