Customer Reviews

Asmara: Africa's Secret Modernist City

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I spent several years living with my family in Asmara as a young boy. Now as an adult I've been searching for a book that would allow my to do some arm chair traveling back to my former home. Mr. Denison's book allowed me to do that in both word and picture. The book is broken up into a general history section followed by detailed photos on the major architecture of Asmara in each of the significant eras, and offers both vintage and current photographs and design plans of the buildings in the city.

A very important work that includes both the Eritrean history and the architectural mystique and prominence of this otherwise unknown city.

I applaud the authors for helping to preserve Eritrea's architectural treasures, which stand as a true gem compared with the rest of the African continent. Outlined in the book are those that were spared from the marauding British and greedy Ethiopian invaders and withstood decades of war.

Edward Denison, Guang Yu Ren and Naigzy Gebremedhin's ASMARA: AFRICA'S SECRET MODERNIST CITY examines the nature and architectural innovations of a city which holds one of the highest concentrations of Modernist architecture in the world. Experts with detailed knowledge of the city survey many of the structures, add notes from previously unpublished archival material, and include original photography not to be seen elsewhere. A 'must' for any college-level collection strong in architecture and modern urban landscapes.

I spent six years living and working in Asmara and was fascinated by its architecture. To compliment Asmara the city, are its citizens, the Asmarinos-friendly, dedicated, hardworking and very proud.

Looking through the pages of this book brought back great memories of my time in Asmara. I was able to view the dedicated work of the Cultural Assets Rehabilitation Project (CARP) in the inner, historical quarter of the city. To see these old buildings come back to life was a joy to behold; especially the devotion to restoring the buildings authentically.

Anyone who has visited this timeless city will be captivated by the journey through the pages of this book. Originally aimed at people in the architectural business, the book reaches out to any reader with its photographic portrayal of one of the world's unique cities.

An extremely well researched and written book; the authors have devoted a great deal of time into their research with getting every aspect of Asmara's development history correct. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and commend it to anyone who has ever visited Asmara. Ane Asmara yefetwa eyee.

Anyone who was in the Peace Corps in or near Asmara or stationed at Kagnew Station would appreciate this lovely book.

Superb book. Wonderful photos. Great articles, detailing the history and contemporary scene. An attractive, informative book. Well worth the price.

Terrific "lost history" book! Thank you, Mr. Denison, et al,
for rediscovering and sharing this fascinating story with the rest of us!