To walk through Rome today is to find the past made present at nearly every corner. For John Stambaugh, this continuity of fabric, form, and function affords an extraordinary view of the ancient city, the experience of its inhabitants, and the Roman way of life. Exploring ancient Rome as both a physical and social environment, he has written the first extended survey of its development in English—and a vivid "guidebook into the living past of one of the most emphatically urban cities the world has ever known."

The Ancient Roman City synthesizes recent work in archaeology and social history and draws on physical, literary, and documentary sources to illuminate ancient Rome as a functioning city. Stambaugh conveys a remarkable sense of the details and texture of daily existence—of apartment houses and street vendors, taverns and graffiti, water deliverymen and dry cleaners. Focusing on individuals and groups at all levels of society—from senators to slaves—he also considers the ways in which the physical city reflected and influenced the needs, aspirations, and attitudes of its people.

In The Ancient Roman City, the author combines a chronological account of Roman topography and growth, extending from the eighth century B.C. to the third century A.D., with examinations of such specific topics as city government, public servuces, religion, commerce, demography, housing, social life, and public spectacle. Surveys of Cosa, Pompeii, Ostiam, Arelate, and Thamugadi chart the expansion of Roman urbanism through the empire. The text is enhanced by numerous illustrations—site and building plans, drawings, and photographs.

For the newcomer to ancient Rome, there is no better orientation. For the person already familiar with the Eternal City's cultural riches or with its modern manifestation, The Ancient Roman City provides a deeper appreciation of Rome's phsical monuments and social foundations.