Travel in the Ancient World - Paperback

by Lionel Casson (Author)

The only book of its kind in any language, Travel in the Ancient World offers a lively, comprehensive history of ancient travel, from the first Egyptian voyages recorded in Old Kingdom inscriptions through Greek and Roman times to the Christian pilgrimages of the fourth and sixth centuries. Rich in anecdote and colorful detail, it now returns to print in paperback with a new preface by the author.

Back Jacket

The only book of its kind in any language, Travel in the Ancient World offers a comprehensive review of ancient travel, from the first recorded voyages to Old Kingdom Egypt through Greek and Roman times to the Christian pilgrimages of the fourth century and later. Lionel Casson tells who traveled and why (government business, trade, health, vacationing, tourism). He describes the ships, carts, carriages, and other means of conveyance; roads and waterways; bars and their drinks, restaurants and their food, inns and their accommodations. He devotes particular attention to tourism: the standard itineraries, the favored sights, museums, guides, guidebooks, and standards of tourist behavior. Rich in anecdote and colorful detail, Travel in the Ancient World now returns to print in paperback with a new preface and a supplement that brings the documentation up to date.

Author Biography

Lionel Casson is professor emeritus of classics at New York University. He is the author of Ships and Seamanship in the Ancient World.