Kent State University in Florence is a fully accredited institution that has been hosting students studying abroad for years. Recently, KSU-F opened its doors to International Studies Abroad in a collaboration that grants students the opportunity to study in historic Florence at its newly-renovated Palazzo dei Cerchi. Palazzo dei Cerchi is a prestigious and ancient building located in the heart of Florence, at the corner of Via della Condotta and Vicolo dei Cerchi, next to the famous Piazza della Signoria and the birthplace of literary genius Dante Alighieri. Kent State acquired the facility in 2003 and undertook a complete renovation. The original exterior was maintained and reflects Florence as it was in the 13th century. The restoration carefully preserved the original structure while creating an efficient space for academic purposes, with an interior that houses state-of-the art classrooms.

A brief history and description of the building is provided on Kent State's web site:

Cerchi has been the location of remarkable events in the Florence's history. Medieval Florentine chroniclers have referred to it since the thirteenth century. The Palazzo was built by the Cerchi as an extension of other buildings owned by the family. The Cerchis were a powerful clan of White Guelphs who became very wealthy from their commercial and banking activities. The importance of the family, as well as that of the building, was so relevant that, beginning in 1293, the Gonfaloniere and the Priori (the city executive powers) had their residence in the Cerchi, where they stayed until Palazzo Vecchio was completed in 1333. According to some sources, Dante Alighieri worked at the palace.

Palazzo dei Cerchi is characterized by outstanding medieval features, and it still shows its original aspect and inner distribution of space. The second floor hall is paved with stones from the 13th century and most of the wooden ceilings are decorated with precious tempered paintings. Of considerable historical value are the many frescoes. They represent medieval life scenes, ancient Florentine families, coat of arms and decorative elements. All frescoes date from the 13th century and are of great artistic and historic value.

Courses available at Kent State University in Florence include History, Politics, Art History, Philosophy, Literature, Fashion, Music, Italian Language and more. These courses allow for an emphasis on European and world issues, as well as Italian civilization and culture. Some classes include field trips specific to the course work. In addition to the academic offerings, students will live in apartments located in the historic center of the city. Upon completion of the ISA program, students will receive a transcript from Kent State University of Ohio.