Venice, Per Luigi Pavini, 1753 (MDCCLIII). Fourth edition, rectified and enlarged. In-12° (small pocket format, typical of travel guides). Coeval muted paperback in poor paperback with manuscript title and date on upper plate. Details of the work: The full title reads, "Il Viaggio in Pratica, or either Instruction General, and Restricted for all those Persons, who wished to travel by all the Roads, and Posts of Europe". The author, Giovanni Maria Vidari, boasts exceptional experience as a courier in the Most Serene Republic of Venice, making the information contained extremely precise and based on direct experience. The work is dedicated to Marco Foscarini, Knight and Procurator of St. Mark's (who would become Doge of Venice in 1762). This edition contains 'Part One of Italy', with a detailed list of post stations, distances and practical advice for the Grand Tour. Historical Significance: Rare testimony to transport logistics in the 18th century. Vidari provides information on the 'poste cambiate', i.e. the updated routes for horses and carriages, making it an indispensable tool for travellers of the time and, today, for historians of the area. Conservation status: Genuine specimen, 'in its gist'. The original paperback shows signs of wear and dust, consistent with a book designed to be carried on journeys. Interior with barbs, slight staining and signs of use, but overall very firm and readable. Why is it interesting? The Author: Venetian couriers were the 'GPS' of the 18th century; their knowledge of European roads was unparalleled. The Format: It is a book born to fit in a pocket or a carriage, surviving for almost 300 years. The Dedication: The connection with Marco Foscarini places the book at the heart of Venetian political history.