Robert Englekirk was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, but soon regularly relocated as he accompanied his “gypsy” father, a well-respected Professor of Spanish American literature. Before entering high school he had spent more than three years abroad and it was in 1951 that he was first introduced to Italy.

In 1959 Bob graduated from Tulane University with a degree in Civil Engineering accompanied by a minor in history – an interest that would grow with each passing year. After three years in Spain with the Air Force, he moved to Los Angeles where he earned his masters and Ph.D. while founding what was to become one of the most respected structural engineering firms in the world.

Academia interest and gypsy spirit were genetically bestowed on Bob and he began immediately to teach and travel. He has taught graduate courses in structural engineering for more than 35 years and is now an Adjunct Professor at the University of California, San Diego and a Professor at the Rose School in Pavia, Italy. Publications include four books and over one hundred papers. Professional endeavors did not cramp his gypsy genes, for he, accompanied by his family, has visited every corner of the globe.

Italy is one of Bob’s favorite destinations and, as a consequence, this book is a labor of love; intended solely to enhance your enjoyment of any visit. Royalties from Dr. Englekirk’s books are used to support learning through scholarships and research at the Englekirk Structural Engineering Center at the University of California, San Diego.

Appreciating Italy is that rarest of travelogues that not only directs the traveler to a travel destination, but also provides a brief review of the historical evolution of the region. Unlike travel books that merely tell you what you should see, Appreciating Italy explains why you should see it, giving you background information on the history, culture, art and architecture of each city; background information that cannot help but add another dimension to the enjoyment of your holiday.

Primary destinations explored include Rome, Florence and Venice as well as the regions that surround each: Naples, Pompeii, Paestum, Capri, Sorrento and the south; Tuscany, Pisa, Siena and Assisi; and the Veneto: Verona, Vicenza, Bassano del Grappa, Ravenna and the Palladio Villas.

The UCSD Bookstore is proud to announce availability of Robert E. Englekirk's critically acclaimed book. Currently we provide three ways to order:

1) Our friendly bookstore staff will happily take your order via email

2) You may also call in your order [800.520.7323].

3) Our friendly bookstore staff will be happy to direct you to the book on our recently remodeled sales floor.