Splendours of ancient Greece

The influence of Ancient Greece, the cradle of Western civilization, is still felt today in all spheres of modern life, from philosophy and politics to literature and art. This book explores the great wealth and cultural achievements of this civilization in colour photographs of buildings, works of art, cities and landscapes, all of which offer insights into the classical world. The text provides an historical framework to this era, from its beginnings in the Bronze Age in Minoan Crete, through the glories of 5th-century BC Athens and the invention of democracy, to the feats of Alexander the Great and the eventual Roman conquest of Greece. Further sections of the book include a detailed look at the riches of Greek art, from the prehistoric to the Hellenistic eras, and an examination of other aspects of Greek culture, including architecture, religion, theatre, sport and warfare. The book is completed by a tour taking in the cities of ancient Greece, from Athens, Olympia, Delphi and Delos, to Asia Minor and the Greek cities of southern Italy. These are brought to life by colour reconstructions and several fold-outs.