From its humble thirteenth-century origins, Liverpool grew rapidly to become the greatest port in the British Empire outside London, but by 1980 the city was seemingly in terminal decline: its population had more than halved, its infrastructure and economy were decaying, and its political leaders were leading the city towards complete collapse. Today though, Liverpool is experiencing a renaissance; it has one of the fastest-growing economies in Britain, it has been a European Capital of Culture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Liverpool's proud and distinctive identity is embodied in the buildings that have shaped the city. Liverpool in 50 Buildings explores the extraordinary history of this rich and vibrant community through a selection of its greatest architectural treasures. From the Royal Liver Building to the prestigious Oriel Chambers, and from the University of Liverpool to Speke Hall, this unique study celebrates the city's architectural heritage in a new and accessible way. Well-known local author Ian Collard guides the reader on a tour of the city's historic buildings and its modern architectural marvels.