An early encounter with tomorrow

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Simon Thurley

"Whitehall Palace was the principal residence of the British monarchy from 1529 to 1698, when fire destroyed most of the complex. As such, it holds a key place in the architectural, political and social history of England. This book is the first to discuss the architecture and archaeology of this influential building.". "Simon Thurley traces the development of the Palace from its origins, using previously unpublished archaeological evidence to establish that York Place, as it was then called, was already one of the largest and most important residences in London before it became a royal palace. Thurley reconstructs the various phases of the Palace's development, showing how successive kings and queens altered the vast, sprawling mass of Whitehall to meet their individual needs. He also charts the plans of monarchs to replace the Tudor building with one that might have rivalled the great Baroque palaces of Europe, and he reveals the reasons they failed to achieve this."--BOOK JACKET.

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Peter Kilby

"Southampton through the ages is an innovative book providing a historic account of the City of Southampton from its inception in 43AD through until the present day. The author's inclusion of extensive descriptions of the buildings and their origins supported by many exceptional photographs and illustrations, paints a vivid portrayal of the city's architectural prowess from first construction to current condition. This book addresses the evolution of Southampton from its beginnings as a Roman settlement in the 1st century AD, through its encounters as a trading settlement, and onto its development as an important link between England and Normandy, until hostilities broke out between the two countries. Periods of wealth as Southampton became a port of considerable stature are recounted, as are times of economic decline up until the city's fortunes changed once again with the discovery of a spa water supply in 1750. The book tells of how modern Southampton dates from the opening of the railway line connecting London to the docks, how it has recently established itself as a premier passenger port, and how World War II has greatly influenced the appearance of the city as we know it today."--BOOK JACKET.

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Laura K. Murray

"The Taj Mahal, a majestic mausoleum in India, continues to amaze visitors with its beauty nearly 400 years after its construction. Engineering the Taj Mahal discusses the emperor behind the famous structure, the precise engineering used by the designers, and the ways in which India is preserving the mausoleum so that it can continue to impress future generations. Easy-to-read text, vivid images, and helpful back matter give readers a clear look at this subject."--Amazon.com.

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Ann Saunders

The comprehensive, prize-winning guide introduces the reader, whether visitor or resident, to the unparalleled visual wealth and historical interest contained in London art and architecture. Ann Saunders' lively style, enthusiasm and narrative gift bring her topographical survey to life, enriching it with historical information and with details of the people who built and lived in London. One of the book's great strengths is its thorough and sympathetic treatment of London's suburbs, with their little known wealth of old village centers, medieval churches and fine houses. A great city deserves to be celebrated and this book does its subject proud.