Examines the history of some of the world's great buildings and describes the different architectural elements and styles that have been used throughout history in countries around the world.

Presents an illustrated look at the step-by-step building of a thirteenth-century Gothic cathedral. "Readers worldwide recognize David Macaulay's imaginary Cathedral of Chutreaux. Originally published in 1973, this critically acclaimed book has since been translated into a dozen languages and remains a classic of children's literature and a touchstone for budding architects. Cathedral's numerous awards include a prestigious Caldecott Honor and designations...

Explores world-famous man-made structures of the ancient and modern world, discussing how they were built, why they are important, and how architecture may change in the future.

Built in the fifteenth century and tucked away in the mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu was abandoned after the Spaniards conquered the Incan empire in the sixteenth century. It remained hidden until 1911 when Hiram Bingham uncovered the marvelous complex and shared his discovery with the world. Today, hundreds of thousands of people visit the site to climb the 3,000 stone steps, explore the towering monuments, and see the numerous species that call...

Reveals the how and why behind some of the most fascinating and enduring structures humankind has ever created.

"From a lowly mixture of stone, sand, water, and cement have sprung sidewalks, streets, and skyscrapers, . . . lighthouses and . . . palaces, long bridges and massive dams. In ancient building practices, in modern engineering, and in the architecture of the future, humble concrete plays a mighty role in the creation of the human-made world. With facts and . . . running narrative in the form of repartee-filled speech bubbles, [this book] is . . . informative...

Examines the stories behind such wonders of the world's architecture as the pyramids of Giza, the Great Wall of China, Chartes Cathedral, the city of Venice, and Hoover Dam.