Skyscrapers

Soaring high into the sky, giants of glass, metal, steel, and mortar revolutionized urban architecture in the twentieth century. From classics (the Empire State Building) to more recent constructions such as the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lampur, nearly fifty world-class skyscrapers--including the World Trade Center--are celebrated in a vertical volume that emulates its subject matter. Led by an expert on architecture and urban development, travel around the world from Hong Kong to Moscow, and dozens of destinations in between to pay tribute to such imposing structures as San Francisco's Transamerica Pyramid, Riyadh's Kingdom Center, Tokyo's Town Hall, Paris's Tour de Montparnasse, and Frankfurt's Messe Turm. Photographed in crisp color, these architectural icons are captured from every angle: distant shots establish stature within a skyline; breathtaking views from the ground skyward emphasize the awesome height; and artistic close-up shots reveal an elegant, abstract, geometric beauty. Take your place on the observation deck of the Sears Tower. Marvel at the Rialto Towers in Melbourne. Watch as death-defying workers navigate beams high above the city to construct these modern wonders. Imagine what skyscrapers of the future might be like. From the comfort of your armchair, you'll enjoy an unsupassed view.