Director of Graduate Studies and Professor of Classics at Princeton, Bob Kaster brings flair and scholarship to this charmingly digressive, extended essay on his travels from Rome to Brinbdisi on The Appian Way. In addition to illuminating the history and culture of the ancient Via Appia, Kaster helpfully includes a “baker’s dozen of must-stops”,  a frank caution about the terrifying traffic leaving Rome and other tips for the travelers.

Naturally, he also has a book list, recommending a stunning photographic celebration of The Appian Way, published by the Getty, along with two comprehensive guidebooks: Rome and its Environs and Rome, An Archaeological Guide.