An in-depth survey of Indian palaces. The palaces are small towns rather than single buildings, in which the Hindu and Muslim rulers of the subcontinent dispensed their laws and enjoyed their wealth. Antonio Martinelli's photographs, taken with access to the buildings, aim to display the beauty and atmosphere of these palaces. George Michell evokes life within the palaces and describes their many elements: defences; spacious audience halls and courtyards; temples and mosques; private apartments; and service quarters.