Architecture is one of mankind's most amazing achievements. Building for function or building for inspiration, architecture has evolved and keeps on evolving, as we do. Readers will learn about the fusion of science and art that creates architecture, and survey early civilizations in the Near East, Europe, Asia, and Meso-America. They will discover the classical tradition of ancient Greece and Rome, and also examine the Castles and cathedrals of the Medieval era. The great European domes are presented in gorgeous photographs and detail, and contemporary architectural techniques and innovations are also discussed.