Viaggi di Ali Bey el-Abbassi in Africa ed in Asia, v. 3

A fascinating early‑19th‑century travelogue, this volume follows the explorer’s four‑year journey across Africa and Asia, recording the sights, sounds, and customs he encounters with meticulous detail. Written in a clear, observant style, the narrative blends personal experience with historical commentary, offering listeners a window into a world on the cusp of dramatic change.

One of the most striking sections transports us to the legendary city of Alexandria. The author paints a vivid picture of its ancient splendor—towering columns, Cleopatra’s obelisks, bustling markets—now reduced to scattered ruins and desert‑filled streets. He notes the diverse population that remains, the modest gardens clinging to life, and the daily rhythms of locals navigating the city on tiny, agile donkeys. Through his eyes we glimpse how recent European contact has begun to reshape attitudes, hinting at a complex cultural exchange that is only just beginning.