This book is intended to be an introduction to the history of Rome and of the social life of its people from the days of the Etruscan kings to those of Mussolini. The "biography" not only provides for the general reader an outline of Rome's varied past, as well as character sketches of those who have played their parts in its long history and development, but it is also of practical use to all those who intend to visit or revisit the city, since the notes at the back contains information about all the buildings and treasures mentioned in the text. A portrait, a history and a superb guide book - this beautifully written, informative study captures the seductive beauty and the many layered past of the Eternal City. To read before coming.

Blue City Guide Rome, by alta Macadam and Timothy Potter, Black Norton Edition (London/New York), 508 pages. ISBN 0-7136-5284-5

The Guide is divided in 40 chapters: the first 34 describe walks within the historical centre of the city, almost all of which can be followed without the help of public transport. Chapter 35-38 cover outer Rome and the last two chapters the immediate environs. A 16-page atlas at the back of the book gives a map reference to orientate youself. The book is packed with information about the history and artistic heritage of Rome. To our opinion, the most exhaustive guide to Rome.

The Companion Guide to Rome, first published 1965 by Georgina Masson, and revised by Tim Jeson, Companion Guides (Woodbridge/New York), 522 pages. ISBN 1-900639-21-1. Web-Site: www.companionguides.com

Georgina Masson, who lived in the old stables of the Villa Pamphili, right in the heart of Rome, during the years she was writing this book, knew the Roman character as intimately as she knew Rome, both public and private. She herself in the "Foreword" warns the reader that this guide does not pretend to cover every aspect of a city which has, after all, some two thousand five hundred years of history. Rome is moreover an introvert and secretive place that hides its treasures. The itineraries have been divided into morning and afternoon walks, covering a time of two weeks, and beginning and ending at some central and easily recognisable spot. Written elegantly and with warmth, interesting mostly for the stories, anecdotes and legends about the city.

Rome, by Rvon Olivia Ercoli, Ros Belford, Roberta Mitchell; Dorling Kindersley Book (London), 432 pages. ISBN 0-7513-0008-X

The authors pride themselves on conceiving a highly visual guidebook that guarantees you to get the most from your stay in Rome with the minimum of practical difficulty. The opening section, "Introducing Rome" locates the city geographically and historically. "Rome at a Glance" is an overview of the city's attraction. The main sightseeing section, "Rome Area by Area",describes all the important sights with maps, photographs and detailed illustrations. The "survival Guide" has advice on everything from posting a letter to catching the Metro. Recommended for the practical information, but superficial from the artistic point of view.

Art & Architecture in Rome, by Brigitte Hintzen-Bohlen and Jürgen Sorges; Könemann (Cologne, Germany) 626 pages. ISBN 3-8290-3109-2

This art travel guide provides a combination of practical orientation for travellers with deeper insigth into the art history of Rome and the Vatican City. It includes comprehensive guide to the most important sights; depiction of each work of art or architecture discussed; maps of the city and the ground plans of buildings; illustrated timeline. The essays on history and culture written by Juergen Sorges are very interesting. Generally a good guide, even though some monuments are described in a superficial way.