On Architecture

Immerse yourself in the quintessential text on architecture that has influenced generations of builders and designers. On Architecture, written by the Roman architect Vitruvius around 40 BC, delves into the principles and practicalities of architecture, engineering, and urban planning through ten exhaustive chapters. This new illustrated edition from Penguin Classics not only presents Vitruvius' vision with renewed clarity but also enriches it with visually engaging elements.

On Architecture covers a broad spectrum of topics, making it akin to an encyclopaedia for Roman construction knowledge. Vitruvius discusses various building materials, the techniques employed in different types of constructions, the importance of geometry and symmetry, and even the impact of climate on architectural design. One of the standout sections is his insightful discourse on human proportions, which has informed artistic practices for centuries. This foundational work is more than just a manual; it offers a holistic view of how the built environment interacts with nature and society.

As the only complete treatise on architecture from antiquity that has survived, On Architecture has been a beacon for scholars and practitioners alike. Its rediscovery during the Renaissance ignited a resurgence of classical principles and significantly influenced the architectural treatises of that era. Notably, figures such as Leon Battista Alberti were inspired by Vitruvius, as seen in Alberti's own seminal work, De re aedificatoria (1485).

This edition not only revisits Vitruvius' groundbreaking ideas but also contextualises them for a modern audience. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a scholar, or a professional in the field, this book offers invaluable insights into the timeless principles of design that continue to shape our world.