Capturing the Soul of the Mother Road: Italian Photographer Roberto Rossi Brings Route 66 to Life

September 24, 2026 jasonspiess The Crude Life 0

At Cars at the Route, Italian photographer Roberto Rossi paused long enough to share the story behind a striking collection of images—photographs that aim to capture more than just the scenery of America’s legendary highway.

Rossi, who hails from Italy and serves as president of the Route 66 Association in Italy, has driven the Mother Road six times. Over roughly five years, he has returned again and again to photograph the route from Chicago to Los Angeles, seeking what he calls “the soul of Route 66.”

“This is the photo exhibition about the all Route 66 from Chicago to LA,” Rossi explained. “And I took this picture in maybe five years. This is my six times on the Route 66 and all time I take picture… Take the soul, the Route 66.”

Joining him in the project is his friend Massimo, who photographed the highway on his first journey along the route. Together they assembled their images into a book that presents a shared vision of the road—its people, places, and enduring character.

Visitors at the event could see the work in person. Those who want a closer look can find Rossi’s photographs and the book on his website: www.robertorosse.name.

Rossi was heading onward to Oklahoma City when he stopped by, continuing a journey that has clearly become both personal and professional. As president of Italy’s Route 66 Association, he helps keep the highway’s legend alive an ocean away—one carefully framed photograph at a time.

The Crude Life is a sponsor and supporter of the Route 66 Americana Archive. Click here for more Route 66 stories, features and interviews.

 

jasonspiess
Author: jasonspiess

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