Perhaps the first non-Muslim to enter the holy city of Mecca, the Venetian explorer Ludovico di Varthema, also known as Barthema, wrote about his travels to such exotic places as Egypt, Syria, Arabia, Persia, India, and Ethiopia. His work is noted for its accurate details, human touch, and drama. Suspected of being a spy, Barthema escapes his confinement and ultimately is rescued by the Portuguese. Although published in 1510, this remains a fresh and exciting work today.