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Rating:  Summary: From imagination to reality Review: David Kroyanker has written a scholarly survey of architecture for the 3000-some years of Jerusalem's history. Perhaps more importantly for most of its audience, it is also a beautiful album of 700 photographs and illustrations, perfect for perusal on an end table or display stand. Even for those residents and tourists who have ready access to the city's neighbourhoods and ancient monuments, its bird's-eye views and snapshots from inside some of its exclusive places of worship are refreshing and educational.This is not primarily a history book, although one will learn much of the history of various kingdoms who have conquered the city and contributed to its architecture. There is emphasis on the fascinating recycling of stones and decorations through the centuries. Jerusalem has a certain mythology to it, and this work will help to add reality to the imaginary status many have given to the Holy City. It is also not a book that champions any particular religious cause. It simply the facts. Toward this end, consider the introduction on the inside jacket: "Jerusalem, ancient city sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, is an architectural wonder with a history of building that extends over three thousand years. It is also a living, vital city -- the New Jerusalem, capital of a modern state...." These are the facts. One also cannot avoid the fact that the State of Israel is responsible for renovating and revitalisating its Old City districts, which were following into ruin until the 20th century. One should, in comparison, take a brief look at the editorial reviews on this page, and one will notice some peculiar editing being practiced. Notice anything missing? Finally, I would like to mention that it will be clear to the reader of this work that Jerusalem is NOT a "mecca", as entry is forbidden to noone based on race or religious affiliation. All are welcome in this city that is the centre of the world.
Rating:  Summary: From imagination to reality Review: David Kroyanker has written a scholarly survey of architecture for the 3000-some years of Jerusalem's history. Perhaps more importantly for most of its audience, it is also a beautiful album of 700 photographs and illustrations, perfect for perusal on an end table or display stand. Even for those residents and tourists who have ready access to the city's neighbourhoods and ancient monuments, its bird's-eye views and snapshots from inside some of its exclusive places of worship are refreshing and educational. This is not primarily a history book, although one will learn much of the history of various kingdoms who have conquered the city and contributed to its architecture. There is emphasis on the fascinating recycling of stones and decorations through the centuries. Jerusalem has a certain mythology to it, and this work will help to add reality to the imaginary status many have given to the Holy City. It is also not a book that champions any particular religious cause. It simply the facts. Toward this end, consider the introduction on the inside jacket: "Jerusalem, ancient city sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, is an architectural wonder with a history of building that extends over three thousand years. It is also a living, vital city -- the New Jerusalem, capital of a modern state...." These are the facts. One also cannot avoid the fact that the State of Israel is responsible for renovating and revitalisating its Old City districts, which were following into ruin until the 20th century. One should, in comparison, take a brief look at the editorial reviews on this page, and one will notice some peculiar editing being practiced. Notice anything missing? Finally, I would like to mention that it will be clear to the reader of this work that Jerusalem is NOT a "mecca", as entry is forbidden to noone based on race or religious affiliation. All are welcome in this city that is the centre of the world.
Rating:  Summary: A MECCA FOR MANY Review: Jerusalem, the one city that is sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims is mecca for many. Not the least of its wonders is its building, which has occurred over 3,000 years. This coffee table volume beautifully presents both the historic old city and the bustling metropolis in a series of remarkable photographs, maps, and drawings. Beginning with the remains of the First Temple Period and continuing to Jerusalem's modern age that began in the 1850s, this unparalleled place is brought to vivid life. Especially in light of what is happening theree today this is a volume to be treasured.
Rating:  Summary: A MECCA FOR MANY Review: Jerusalem, the one city that is sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims is mecca for many. Not the least of its wonders is its building, which has occurred over 3,000 years. This coffee table volume beautifully presents both the historic old city and the bustling metropolis in a series of remarkable photographs, maps, and drawings. Beginning with the remains of the First Temple Period and continuing to Jerusalem's modern age that began in the 1850s, this unparalleled place is brought to vivid life. Especially in light of what is happening theree today this is a volume to be treasured.
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