Architectural history is the study of architecture as it has evolved over centuries and across many different landscapes and cultures.  Structures and dwellings are among the chief artifacts that any civil society leaves behind, the history of architecture is, at its essence, a history of human existence.   The history of architecture traces the changes in architecture through various traditions, regions, overarching stylistic trends, and dates. The beginnings of all these traditions is thought to be humans satisfying the very basic need of shelter and protection.