September 28 (Wednesday). Magna Graecia - The Presence and Power of Hellenic Culture in Ancient Southern Italy. By the 8th Century B.C., the Greeks had established themselves throughout Puglia, Basilicata, Sicilia, Calabria and Campania among other sites. For the ancient Greeks, Southern Italy was somewhat of an America. Seeking even greater rewards from this underdeveloped territory, the Greeks established a network of overseas Italian colonies that would later equal and even surpass the motherland. Their accomplishments in architecture, culture, commerce, philosophy and the sciences were of such grandeur and influence that the Greek civilization came to be acclaimed as Magna Grecia, i.e. Great Greece. Join in this enriching exploration of one of Italy's greatest founding cultures: the New World Greeks in ancient Italy. Must register in advance and prepay.

Westchester Italian Cultural Center - One Generoso Pope Place, Tuckahoe, NY - Admission: Members: $20; Non-Members: $25. Contact: Patrizia Calce 914-771-8700 ext. 109 - pcalce@wiccny.org