I feel that when talking about the physical position, „nad” is more favored than „ponad”, but I wouldn't necessarily call it wrong (though it could fit better with „lata”). I see „ponad” more often when talking about numbers, as in „over 20%” for example.

Added 'ponad', but I don't think we teach it. After all, the course teaches basics ;)

Similarly to the "Polish tradition" - "stolica włoska" sounds strange to my ear.