Hardly had his famous essays been published when Michel de Montaigne set off on his grand journey, which gave us his "Journal of the Journey to Italy through Switzerland and Germany from 1580 to 1581." Whether in his famous tower during the nine years he spent writing his essays or on his tour through Italy, being on the road was a constant state of existence for Montaigne. His precise gaze, marked by tolerant attention and calmness, transforms his travel diary into a vividly colorful source of cultural history—showing little interest in the qualities of a tour guide or reports on sights. He observes landscapes, countries, people, and ways of life—with respect for the common folk: he is fascinated by the cooking and dining customs in the inns, studies the brothels of Venice and Florence, and witnesses executions.