SPECTACULAR IRELAND - Tapa dura

Through words and stunning images, the Emerald Isle is brought to life in Spectacular Ireland, a magnificent collection of 140 color photographs by some of Ireland's best landscape photographers and elegant text by Peter Harbison, one of Ireland's most distinguished voices and renowned archaeologists. This handsome volume celebrates Ireland, a small island country of extraordinary beauty, fascinating history, and evocative myths, where old and new thrive together. From ancient standing stones and breathtaking pastoral scenes to energetic cities of architectural sophistication, we take a photographic tour reflecting the soul of this spectacular island. A brief history of Ireland puts the images into historical context: from ancient Celtic dolmens to abbeys and castles, from lush pastures, fields of heather, and seaside cliffs to formal gardens, and from ancient villages to the rush of contemporary Dublin. But Ireland is much more than beautiful landscape. Much of the magic of the country lies in the people themselves; these are a people who cherish their land. It is a rich heritage-of history, magic, and mystery-that makes Ireland a favorite destination for tourists and armchair travelers alike.