Robust, romantic and imposing, castles capture our imagination when we were children and continue to hold interest throughout our lives.

From Europe to Haiti, from India to Japan, Castles of the World explores forts, strongholds, towers and citadels from the ancient world up to the 20th century. Entries range from well-known examples such as Corfe Castle in England, the crusader stronghold of Krak des Chevaliers in Syria and the romantic palace of Neuschwanstein in Bavaria, to lesser-known curiosities such as the Genoese Fortress in the Crimea, Rudkhan Castle in Iran and Morro Castle in Havana.

Arranged chronologically, each entry includes a striking colour photograph and expert text briefly telling the story of the castle's history. Built, rebuilt and expanded many times, castles often don't just tell us about one period in history, but about many different times. They offer us layers of history - and sometimes mystery, too.

With 200 outstanding colour photographs, Castles of the World is a beautiful examination of worlds gone by.