A History of Architecture by Sir Banister Fletcher is one of the most influential and enduring books ever written on the history of world architecture. First published in 1896, it has remained the definitive reference for architects, historians, students, and scholars for more than a century. Commonly known simply as "Banister Fletcher", the book provides a comprehensive survey of architectural history from ancient civilizations to contemporary global architecture, tracing the evolution of design, construction techniques, cultural influences, and urban development across every major civilization.

The book explores the architectural achievements of Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, Byzantium, the Islamic world, India, China, Japan, Southeast Asia, Africa, Pre-Columbian America, Medieval Europe, the Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassicism, Gothic Revival, Modernism, Postmodernism, and twenty-first-century architecture. It examines iconic buildings, monuments, temples, palaces, churches, mosques, forts, civic structures, and skyscrapers while explaining how geography, religion, politics, technology, and culture influenced architectural styles.

The latest editions represent a major transformation of the classic work, moving beyond its earlier Eurocentric approach to provide a truly global history of architecture. Contributions from over 100 international scholars present diverse perspectives on architectural traditions from around the world. Richly illustrated with more than 2,500 photographs, architectural drawings, plans, maps, diagrams, and reconstructions, the book serves as both an academic reference and an inspirational visual resource. It is widely regarded as one of the essential books for architecture students, conservationists, historians, designers, and professionals.