Cities and Civilizations (2003) by Christopher Hibbert, published by the Folio Society, is a visually stunning and intellectually rich exploration of the world’s greatest urban centers and the cultures they shaped. Hibbert, a master historian known for his engaging narrative style, traces the rise and fall of iconic cities—from ancient Athens and Rome to Renaissance Florence, Victorian London, and beyond—revealing how their architecture, politics, and daily life defined entire civilizations.
This Folio Society edition elevates Hibbert’s work with luxurious production values: a finely bound hardcover, high-quality paper, and a wealth of illustrations, including maps, paintings, and period engravings that bring each metropolis to life. The book balances grand historical sweep with vivid anecdotes, offering glimpses into the lives of emperors, artists, merchants, and ordinary citizens who shaped these urban landscapes.
A celebration of human ingenuity and ambition, Cities and Civilizations is both a scholarly journey and a feast for the eyes—a must-have for history enthusiasts and collectors of beautifully crafted books.
