Follies of Europe

From the magical, ambitious charm of Portmeirion in North-West Wales, to the marvellous eccentricity of La Scarzuola of Montegabbione, Umbria, with its musical staircase and transparent pyramid, this book explores follies, extravagant structures erected for amusement or diversion - and occasionally for the residence - of inspired patrons and artists throughout Europe. Chosen by photographer Nic Barlow, this selection has been assembled not only to demonstrate their charm, diversity and invention, but also to celebrate those that are unexpected, overlooked or little known. A comprehensive introductory text by Tim Knox brings together many themes - style, genres, politics, social history, the personality of the architects - and examines the national differences between follies. In addition to stunning colour photographs, entries for each folly are accompanied by fascinating descriptive texts which include historical and architectural details.