In this sweeping volume, Professor Acocella analyzes every type of stone, from those used by the Egyptians to the marble used by Mies van der Rohe. Stone as a material is not only analyzed from a historical point of view, it is categorized and examined according to its technological usage. The book is based on comparison and confrontation between origins, archetypes and present-day themes, examining a variety of projects from around the world. It provides an in-depth analysis of the enormous potential of building in stone.

A combination of dense, carefully construed chapters are designed to summarize the essence of the material in its various architectonic roles through a series of specially created technical drawings, and a range of original drawings and photos.