The first ever truly comprehensive history of Venetian architecture, Venice: The City and its Architectureabandons the traditional chronological approach of earlier histories in favour of one that is able to encompass the diverse and manifold influences that have affected the city's development. The buildings are explored through the unique urban context of Venice. This extensive tome brings to life the best aspects of the city's characteristic topography - changing light, reflective waters and prime geographical position at the crossroads of trade routes to the East. A vast range of buildings is celebrated - from fishermen's cottages to the palazzi on the Grand Canal and from the simplest of early Christian basilicas to Palladio's masterpieces and Longhena's Santa Maria della Salute. Colour photographs, original plans, contemporary drawings and paintings by the Venetian masters are all combined to reflect the visual wealth of this extraordinary city. The elegance and eloquence of this stimulating book render it as classic as the city whose secrets it reveals.