{"product_id":"ancient-ireland-from-prehistory-to-the-middle-ages-9780195212686","title":"Ancient Ireland: From Prehistory to the Middle Ages","description":"\u003cp\u003eFrom prehistoric stone circles to medieval high crosses  from seaside stone castles to Elizabethan tower houses  the monuments of Ireland fascinate scholars and travelers alike. Whether crumbling or perfectly preserved  in the midst of cities or standing alone in isolated landscapes  they bear mute but eloquent witness to the islands rich past. Now  back by popular demand  comes a stunningly illustrated guide to Irelands historic places. Ranging from the earliest remnants of the prehistoric past to the end of the medieval era  Ancient Ireland provides an outstanding survey of the islands finest archaeological and architectural sites. Peter Harbison provides lively and thoughtful descriptions of megalithic wedge tombs  medieval round towers  and Tudor manor houses--matched by more than 300 hauntingly beautiful photographs by Jacqueline OBrien. Harbison also provides a narrative overview of Irelands history  placing the architectural monuments in the context of Roman influence  Celtic migration  Brian Borus battles  Norse and Norman invasions  Gaelic revival  and Cromwells conquests. He describes the earliest monasteries against the background of St. Patricks missionary efforts  examines the cultural impact of the Viking conquests  and explores the literary flowering that took place even as the Anglo-Norman aristocracy asserted its primacy in the twelfth century. The book brims with colorful details. And throughout  the carefully rendered and captioned photographs bring to life the rich physical legacy of the islands tumultuous past. Ireland remains a favorite destination for travelers  whether tourists or scholars of its fabled culture and history. Ancient Ireland provides an essential guide for all who are bound for the emerald isle--a delightful volume for tourists and armchair travelers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"My Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45647559295029,"sku":"ByrdShop_0195212681","price":52.84,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0627\/8139\/0901\/files\/9780195212686.jpg?v=1781692731","url":"https:\/\/atxbooks.com\/products\/ancient-ireland-from-prehistory-to-the-middle-ages-9780195212686","provider":"ATX Books","version":"1.0","type":"link"}