Diez Libros de Arquitectura, Los

Marco Vitruvio Polión's treatise on architecture is the sole surviving work from the ancient Greek-Roman civilization that has come down to us in its entirety. This comprehensive examination covers all aspects of building, including suitable locations, materials, types of buildings, orders, ornaments, and various machines, as well as astronomical and mathematical considerations.

Written during the time of César, these ten books prefigured the close connection that would be established between architecture and state interests in the future. The work played a significant role in preparing the ground for the large-scale construction projects of the Roman Empire. This edition, featuring a foreword by Delfín Rodríguez Ruiz and translated directly from the original Latin by José Luis Oliver Domínguez with updated criteria, includes a selection of relevant engravings from major Renaissance and Baroque editions.

Considered a true summa of all architectural knowledge from antiquity, Vitruvio's work has been widely copied and reprinted throughout history, including its first edition in 1486. This publication is an important part of our cultural heritage and the most influential artistic treatise in the history of Western civilization.