From the Veneto in the north, Emiglia Romana in the centre, to Puglia and Sicily in the south, each of the twenty regions of Italy is distinct in its food, language, history, and people. Experience every remarkable corner of this favourite travel destination in a lavishly illustrated volume that brings its diversity and richness to life with authority and verve. Tour thirteenth-century castles perched on dolomite peaks in the north, hear tales of life among Rome's ancient landmarks and equally ancient apartments, relish the unbelievable diversity Sicily has achieved through having been occupied by more foreign powers than anywhere else on the Italian peninsula, and more. Essays full of history, philosophical ruminations, humorous anecdotes, cultural musings, and useful travel information - in short, the best of The New York Times talent - will make you want to drop everything and fly to this land that continues to inspire writers, artists, and the casual visitor alike.In addition, some of the most striking photographs include an arial image of Castel Sant' Angelo and the Tiber River, the Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona in Rome, Byzantine mosaics in Villa del Casale in Sicily and the striking gothic facade of Milan's Duomo.