Bokern, Anneke: Rotterdam. Architectural Guide

Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and prides itself on being its architecture capital. The first thing that most visitors notice is the many high-rises, which give the city its billing as 'Manhattan on the Maas'. But there is much more to Rotterdam than glossy prestige projects. World-famous for its harbour, which is currently the biggest in Europe, Rotterdam is a very dynamic metropolis: experimental, slightly rough around the edges, and studded with hidden gems. This architecture guide presents more than 150 selected buildings in Rotterdam, ranging from the few remainin g from the Golden Age to modern classics and contemporary projects. It covers famous highlights, but also lesser-known interventions, such as small infill and self-build projects. The buildings are arranged in six tours through different areas of the city - ideal for discovering by bike. In addition to an introduction to the historical development of the city, the guide also includes a chapter on the most momentous event in the history of Rotterdam: the bombing of the city centre during the Second World War and its subsequent reconstruction. An interview with renowned Rotterdam-based architect Kees Christiaanse provides an insider's view on recent developments.