A book of bridges

This work offers a compact survey of bridges, mixing historical narrative, technical description, and visual illustration to chart their evolution from primitive timber crossings and natural-arch inspirations through Roman engineering, medieval fortified bridges, and later unfortified and Renaissance types. It examines regional varieties including Chinese gabled forms, discusses materials and construction methods, and highlights the relationship between bridges, roads, social needs, and military strategy. Organized into topical chapters and appendices, the text pairs analytical commentary with plates and drawings that depict notable structures and typologies across Europe and beyond.