Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2011
Pulsating variable stars are powerful tools to study the structure and evolution ofgalaxies. Among different types of pulsating variables the Classical Cepheids trace theyoung stellar component in galaxies, and are one of the most important primary stellardistance indicators in establishing the cosmic distance scale. Instead, the RR Lyraestars, with ages comparable to the age of the Universe, eyewitnessed the processesoccurring in the very early times of galaxy formation, and thus can provide hints on howgalaxies have formed. The role played by the pulsating variable stars in our understandingof the galactic structure and evolution is briefly reviewed in light of the promises ofthe scientific exploitation of the Gaia mission.