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The Indian-born English author, having lived under the Ayatollah's death threat since 1989, is uniquely qualified to write about culture clash, as he does in his novel about early European contact with 16th-century Mughal India.

Print out this handy companion map and bring it along as you follow the tour. Each stop along the tour is marked on the map. To view and print this PDF map, you'll need Acrobat Reader.

Stopped in its tracks by a volcanic eruption in 79 A.D., the city of Pompeii is remarkably well preserved. It's the best look anywhere at everyday life in ancient Rome. Don't forget to download the handy PDF companion map.

Travel blogger Angela Nickerson shares the highlights from researching her book, "A Journey into Michelangelo's Rome."

In this excerpt from Rick's travel memoir, "Postcards from Europe," he explores the gritty Trastevere neighborhood, sublime St. Peter's, historic Forum, and enjoys an evening stroll with Italian friends.

Two Roman tour guides explain how to find the magic in Rome's backstreets connecting ancient history and today's modern city.

Rick goes underground with Roman tour guide Francesca Caruso discovering Ancient Rome beneath the city's bustling streets.

Rome's Jewish community, numbering 16,000 today, can trace its roots back to the time of Christ. Roman tour guide Micaela Pavoncello talks with Rick about her community's traditions, dialect, and history.