Customer Reviews

St. Petersburg: Architecture of the Tsars

5 star:		(12)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is a beautiful book. The photographs are outstanding, and occasional old prints showing scenes as they appeared centuries ago lend welcome perspective. The well-written text presumes some knowledge of Russian history but can be enjoyed by anyone interested in this amazing city. Bravo!

One of the most beautiful books I've ever come across, St. Petersburg:Architecture of the Tsars is a must for those interested in Imperial Russian history, architecture, or both. The lavish book aptly illustrates the architecture of the former capital of the tsars, from the exuberant Russian Baroque of Peter the Great, to the neoclassicism of Catherine the Great, to the Art Nouveau of Nicholas II. With chapters arranged in chronological order, the book illustrates the development of the city through the reigns of each tsar/tsaritsa, and includes seperate chapters on Pavlovsk, Tsarskoe Selo, and Peterhof. The book is well worth the price.

Wonderful pictures and easy to read. I think that this book is a must- have for anyone with more than a passing interest in architecture. I wish they would write volume no. 2!

This is a gorgeous book on a beautiful city. My father would have loved this book, he had an interest in all things Russian, he and my mother toured St. Petersburg and loved it. The images in this book are crisp and text highly informative. St. Petersburg has a wealth of beautiful Imperial Buildings and they are shown at their best in this wonderful book. From Peter the Great's Peterhof to the Hermitage, to Catherine the Great's Tsarkoe Selo, the best of Imperial Russian architecture is on display. If you have any interst in Imperial Russian architecture or just enjoy fine books, then i cannot imagine you being disappointed. Highly recommended.

This can be an expensive book if you're not buying it used, but it's absolutely worth it. The beautiful pictures are excellent at presenting St. Petersburg's amazing architectural wonders. The text is well-written, and even if you don't have a great deal of knowledge of Russian history, you'll still be able to follow along without any trouble.

A gem - read and enjoy!

The most gorgeous, comprehensive photographic panorama of the treasures of St. Petersburg. Even if your exposure to St. Petersburg is limited to the Winter Palace, (now the "Hermitage" museum), BUY this book AND buy the unreal, almost surreal DVD "Russian Ark". Both are BREATHTAKING!

Discovered this book at Metropolitan Museum in NYC and wanted it immediately. However, I had the presence of mind to return home to Arkansas and GOOGLEd the title and now I own this volumes for $$$$ less.

This is an amazing book about a beautiful city.
St. Petersburg is known for its wonderful architectural heritage and this over-sized stylish book captures the essence and beauty of this city in the best possible manner.
The book is thick and very well bound and loaded with gorgeous color photography revealing the beautiful architectural details.
The photos are also accompanied with a highly informative text which puts the buildings illustrated into their respective social and historical context.
This is a highly recommended book for anyone interested in history and fine architecture, worth every penny.

One does not have to be an architect to appreciate St. Petersburg! Ever since Peter the Great created this great city on the marshy banks of the Neva three centures ago, it has
acquired a heritage of splendor of the many palaces, churches and gardens. There is a
blend of west European and Asian distinctive architecture. The museums are rich in art treasures, books and priceless manuscripts.

The photographs by Alexander Orloff and text by Dmitri Shvidkovsky are superlative and do
justice. St. Petersburg is equalled by few cities anywhere!

Highly recommended!

Dag Stomberg

A beautiful book that you will want to share with friends. Excellent photographs of many of St. Petersburg's architectural gems. This book will motivate people to visit these sites if they have not seen them before.