Greece is renowned throughout the world as the cradle of democracy, the land where classical architecture, theatre and poetry were born. When seen from the air, its history, mythology and majestic natural beauty assume a new dimension and come truly alive.

In this sumptuous volume, Greece's ancient marble ampitheatres, temples and columns stand guard like the gods of Olympus. The Acropolis, Delphi and the age-old theatre of Epidaurus appear in an entirely new light. Yann Arthus-Bertrand, the French photographer whose aerial photographs have resulted in a series of internationally bestselling books, has captured these classic symbols of antiquity together with the grandeur of the rocky Mediterranean landscape, lush olive groves and glorious islands.

Journalist Janine Trotereau's evocative captions illuminate Arthus-Bertrand's breathtaking views and provide geographical, historical and cultural information. The rich history of Mount Athos and its twenty monasteries, the ancient ruins of Crete and its legendary Minotaur, and the island of Santorini and its volcano are all magnificently pictured and discussed, as are the popular beaches on Ios, Mykonos and Corfu, today's busy seaports, and the bustling metropolis of Athens with its centrepiece, the Parthenon.

Few places are as resonant in the modern imagination as Greece. This unparalleled view from the air reveals the heritage of a great ancient civilisation and the appeal of a modern land.