San Rafael is a fictional city, not to be found on any map. Yet its history, architectural growth, and cultural development echo the evolution of any of the Central American cities in the region between Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and Guatemalas Sierra de las Minas.Panoramic art spreads and detailed drawings vividly illustrate the profound changes in San Rafael through fourteen crucial stages, from its birth as a Mayan agricultural and religious center, through its transformation into a Spanish American colonial city, to its eventual development as a product of the clash between Europe and the New World.Fascinatingly precise illustrations and an illuminating text combine to present information on history, architecture, politics, and anthropology. This is an exceptional book - at once versatile and beautiful. Read Less