The Holy Land: An Archaeological Guide from Earliest Times to 1700

Now available in a new edition, this wonderful tour of the Holy Land has been thoroughly revised, expanded, and brought up to date. Perfect for travelers (not least those of the armchair variety), this concise, readable, and even witty book offers both an authoritative look at the history, art, architecture, and archaeological aspects of the region, and expert advice on how to find the sites and monuments of the greatest interest to the visitor. The Holy Land takes the reader from Stone Age caves and the grandiose buildings of Herod the Great, to Roman Roads, Byzantine churches, Crusader fortifications, and beautifully decorated Mameluke houses. Murphy-O'Connor--who has spent twenty years guiding tourists in the Middle East--offers detailed instructions on various routes that will encourage the traveler to venture off the beaten path, and provides the latest information on the most recent excavations, complete with detailed site plans and maps. For the visitor to a region rich in history and religious tradition the guide is indispensable; for the casual reader, it offers hours enjoyment right at home.