Little known in the West, Armenian Classical Architecture is one of humanity's greatest intellectual and aesthetic achievements. Gfoeller and Klein trace its development from the 1st century to the 13th, through a rich combination of pithy, information-rich essays, insightful captions, and thousands of stunningly beautiful photographs. The authors deal with subjects as diverse as ancient construction techniques, the historical context in which the great monuments of Armenian architecture were built, and the profound and unique philosophical and religious ideas they expressed. With thousands of beautiful photographs they explore Armenian architecture, design, sculpture, and painting. This book is a unique intellectual achievement. The remarkable monuments featured on its pages have never been documented in such exquisite detail before. It is an intellectual feast and an invitation to readers to explore, discover and celebrate the beauty of Armenian architecture and civilization for themselves. Most important of all, this book is a tribute to the great architects, mathematicians, painters, sculptors, and monks who created Armenia's immortal churches and monasteries.