Customer Reviews

The Appian Way: From Its Foundation to the Middle Ages (Getty Trust Publications: J. Paul Getty Museum)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Enhanced with the breathtakingly beautiful color photography of Franco Mammana and expertly compiled, edited and oreganized by Ivana della Portella, The Appian Way: From Its Foundation To The Middle Ages is a photographic and historical showcase of the first major artery to connect Rome to southern Italy, which became a model for all roads originating within the ancient capital. A historical survey of the road from its construction in 312 B.C. to its use centuries laterby Christian pilgrims en route to Jerusalem and much more enhances the scenic images from the road itself as well as artistic illustrations expressing edifices from ancient times along this historic road. A treasure for history buffs and a joy for armchair travelers.

Every couple of years I do a bike tour of the Appian Way. This book (in its Italian version) was recommended by an archeologist I met in Rome when I was getting ready for my first tour. It's got just enough information to make you feel excited without feeling overwhelmed, and the photos of course make you want to get on a plane and go there. And I did. Now whenever someone asks me where I went, or why, I just whip this out and show them.

If you have any passion for the ancient Mediterranean world, and especially if you're planning a trip through southern Italy and you need to convince anyone (including yourself) that it's worthwile, this book is a must-have.