The book provides an in-depth exploration of ancient Naples, detailing its history from inception to late antiquity. It examines the city's geographical and geological features, climate, agriculture, and the influence of Vesuvius on its development. Taylor's comprehensive survey highlights the unique aspects of Naples' landscape and environment, offering insights into how these elements shaped the city's evolution over time.
How were the architectural ideas behind great Roman building projects carried out in practice? Each major phase of the building process is considered in the building histories of the Baths of Caracalla, the Pantheon, the Coliseum, and the great temples at Baalbek. New hypotheses are advanced on the raising of monolithic columns, the construction sequence of the Coliseum, and the vaulting of the Pantheon. The illustrations include archival and original photographs, as well as numerous explanatory drawings.