At Schiller International University, education is designed to be experienced. In Madrid, students regularly step beyond the classroom to engage directly with Spain’s culture, history, and artistic legacy.

Two recent excursions—an exploration of 20th-century Spanish art in Madrid and a full-day cultural visit to Toledo—perfectly capture how Schiller integrates cultural immersion, experiential learning, and global education into student life.

Exploring 20th-Century Spanish Art in Madrid

In Madrid, students had the opportunity to dive into modern Spanish creativity through the exhibition Colección Masaveu: Arte Español del siglo XX de Picasso a Barceló. The visit brought students face-to-face with iconic artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, and Joaquín Sorolla—offering a powerful overview of movements like Cubism, Surrealism, and contemporary expression.

Guided by museum educators, students explored the evolution of modern Spanish art, the relationship between art, politics, and society, and the techniques and innovations across different artistic movements. But the experience went even further. As part of their Spanish language studies, students actively engaged with museum staff in Spanish—asking questions, discussing interpretations, and applying classroom vocabulary in a real-world context.

Toledo: A Living Classroom of Culture and History

Just a short journey from Madrid, the historic city of Toledo offered students a completely different kind of immersion—one rooted in centuries of cultural coexistence. The day began in Zocodover Square, with views of the iconic Alcázar of Toledo, before students explored landmarks like the Roman Baths and the city’s medieval streets. Known as the “City of Three Cultures,” Toledo reflects the lasting influence of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities. Walking through its narrow alleys and historic architecture, students experienced firsthand how these cultures shaped the city’s identity.

Highlights of the experience included exploring medieval streets and historic landmarks, discovering Toledo’s multicultural heritage, free time to engage with local shops and hidden corners, a shared three-course lunch in the city center. For those seeking adventure, some students even crossed the Tagus River via a zipline near the San Martín Bridge—adding an unforgettable perspective to the day.

Hands-On Tradition: The Art of Marzipan

One of the most memorable moments came during a hands-on workshop at Mazapán Santo Tomé, one of Toledo’s most renowned artisan confectioneries. Here, students learned about the history and craftsmanship behind marzipan, a traditional Spanish sweet deeply rooted in the city’s identity.

Guided by expert artisans, they shaped and baked their own creations, learned traditional confectionery techniques, and took home their handmade marzipan as a personal souvenir. This tactile experience transformed culture into something students could literally hold, taste, and remember.

Why Cultural Immersion Matters

These experiences highlight a key pillar of Schiller’s philosophy: learning happens everywhere. By combining academics with real-world exploration, students develop:

• Strong cross-cultural communication skills

• A deeper understanding of global history and identity

• The confidence to navigate international environments

Whether analyzing a Picasso painting or walking through Toledo’s medieval streets, students gain perspectives that go far beyond traditional education.