Scuola Leonardo da Vinci, founded in 1977 as an Institute of Italian Language and Culture, has established itself as a prominent institution in the realm of language education, seamlessly blending linguistic expertise with rich cultural experiences.

Since its origins in Florence, the school has been dedicated to the integration of language and culture, a philosophy that remains at its core. The teaching of the Italian language at Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is uniquely intertwined with a diverse array of cultural aspects, including courses in art history, Italian cuisine, Italian cinema, and various crafts such as weaving, pottery, leatherwork, and jewelry.

The commitment to fostering an understanding of Italian culture alongside language education has been a constant throughout the school's evolution. Over the years, Scuola Leonardo da Vinci has adapted to contemporary demands, expanding its curriculum to include courses that reflect the current market trends, with a particular focus on food and wine, art, painting, and restoration.

In 1984, the school extended its reach with the inauguration of a second location in the heart of Rome, maintaining the same principles and guidelines that have defined its identity. Following this success, a third location emerged in 1991 in the picturesque city of Siena, nestled in the heart of the Chianti Region, becoming a hub for those interested in the food and wine sector.

In 2004, the doors of Scuola Leonardo da Vinci opened in Milan, the fashion and design capital, strategically positioned in the city center near the iconic Duomo. This expansion marked a continued commitment to providing a holistic educational experience that combines language proficiency with an immersion in Italian culture.

Over its 37-year journey, Scuola Leonardo da Vinci has welcomed students from diverse nationalities worldwide. The school's international presence has grown, fostering connections with universities and colleges in the U.S., South America, and beyond. Engaging in workshops globally, from the United States and Japan to Korea, Northern Europe, Eastern European countries, and Russia, the institution has played a vital role in promoting Italy's rich historical and artistic heritage.

In 1984, Scuola Leonardo da Vinci made a significant contribution to the founding of the Accademia Italiana di Lingua (AIL), a professional association dedicated to teaching Italian as a foreign language. The AIL introduced the first diploma of modern Italian, aligning with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). To date, over 14,000 candidates from Italian offices and abroad have participated in the AIL exams.

As of 2021, Scuola Leonardo da Vinci has expanded its offerings to include two new destinations: Turin, the first capital of Italy, and Viareggio, the elegant seaside city of the Versilia.

Today, Scuola Leonardo da Vinci continues to evolve, tailoring courses to specific age groups, professions, and scheduling needs. While looking to the future, the school remains rooted in its foundational belief that language and culture are inseparable. This commitment has spurred ongoing research into innovative methodologies for training teachers of second and foreign languages, ensuring that the institution remains at the forefront of language education.