Itinéraire général, descriptif, historique et artistique de l'Espagne et du Portugal

Published in the mid-19th century, this guide was crafted by Alfred Germond de Lavigne as part of the influential 'Guides Joanne' series. At a time when European tourism was shifting from the aristocratic Grand Tour to a more accessible endeavor for the burgeoning middle class, these volumes were designed to provide comprehensive, reliable information for the adventurous traveler navigating the Iberian Peninsula.

The guide represents the meticulous standards of the Hachette publishing house, which sought to standardize travel literature through detailed topographical descriptions, historical context, and practical logistical advice. De Lavigne’s work is noted for its scholarly approach, blending a deep appreciation for Spanish and Portuguese art history with the functional utility required by rail and carriage travelers of the era.