The Stagecoach

1750 - 1800

The Grand Tour became popular between the seventeenth and eighteenth century in Europe, particularly among the wealthier classes. The Italian peninsula was almost always one of the key destinations, thanks to its classical Roman sites and its Renaissance art. Those who did not have their own carriage or could not afford to hire one, would embark upon the journey by stagecoach.    

Stagecoaches were slow and quite uncomfortable. The most advanced version was split into three compartments: front (coupé o cabriolet), central (sedan) and rear (tonneau). The postilion sat on the roof of the coupé. “Second-class” passengers sat on an uncovered bench behind him.