Not Built in a Day: Exploring the Architecture of Rome

by George H. Sullivan

Not Built in a Exploring the Architecture of Rome is a unique, unconventional guide and a deeply felt homage to Rome and its extraordinary 2,500-year history. Moving beyond the names, dates, and statistics of ordinary guidebooks, George Sullivan's eye-opening essays celebrate the special character of Rome's buildings, fountains, piazzas, streets, and ruins. From the largest landmark down to the smallest hidden gem, Not Built in a Day explores the city in comprehensive detail, offering detailed visual and historical analyses that enable readers to see and understand exactly what makes the architecture of Rome so important, influential, and fascinating.

Not Built in a Day is supported by a companion website (NotBuiltInADay.com) that offers, among other features, detailed illustrative photographs for readers who want to experience the book's walking tours at home and large printable maps for readers using small electronic devices on-site in Rome.

Genres: Travel, Architecture, History

400 pages, Paperback

First published December 31, 2005

Reviews

[Penny Cipolone · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent source for material on the wonders of Roman architecture. A bit technical in spots, but great for those who have been to Rome or are planning to go. Would have been nice to have more illustrations but I see the author's point in that illustrations of all that he describes would have made the book too heavy to carry around. A most enjoyable read.

[David Premier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Its a reference book... Good to carry along on a trip to Rome. It really helps to understand the historic significance of each monument in the city and paints a beautiful picture of that era it was built in.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely only for lovers of Rome, but I am one. I'd love to have read it as a sightseer but even as a armchair traveller, I enjoyed it. If it were as heavily illustrated as would be ideal for someone reading at home, it would be far too heavy to use as a guidebook (not to mention outrageously expensive!). Best read with a laptop or tablet at hand to look up photos of the sights discussed.

[William · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good book if you are no your way to Rome