L'ITALIA E LA NASCITA DELLA GUIDA DI VIAGGIO MODERNA

Abstract

The paper discusses the German polymath J.J. Volkmann and his popular travel guide, used and quoted by eminent Eighteenth century German writers (including Goethe) during their travels through Italy. Although some readers considered Volkmann's Beschreibung dull and pedantic, the guide paved the way for the modern Baedeker, the much loved companion for milions of middle-call tourists.