Vatican

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Gr. 7-12. Like other captivating entries in the Building History series, this title uses the story of a monumental structure to expand on cultural and political history. Writing in accessible, straightforward language, Lace begins with St. Peter's arrival in Rome and moves swiftly forward through the centuries, offering a brisk overview of the Papacy, the structures that each pope contributed to the Vatican, and the artists who were commissioned to create them. Quotes from Michelangelo and others, fascinating details, and intriguing mysteries (the exact location of St. Peter's tomb, for example) will draw readers easily into the text, while sidebars further explore historical events and Roman Catholic terms. Black-and-white reproductions of maps, etchings, and portraits mix with a central section of glossy color photographs that showcase some of the Vatican's artistic treasures. A short list of notes and recommended reading and a bibliography round out this fine resource for students researching history or religion topics. Gillian Engberg
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved


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Each book in the "Building History" series tells the "fascinating stories behind the construction of some of the world's most awe-inspiring structures." Weaving together history, legend, archaeology, religion, architecture and mystery, this volume relates the fascinating story of the complex of buildings and gardens that make up the independent City State of the Vatican, the supreme headquarters of the Catholic Church. The greater part of the book describes the design and construction of the Vatican's centerpiece, Saint Peter's Basilica and its magnificent dome. It gives readers details on the Popes who dreamed of this edifice and of the architects and artists, Michelangelo and Bernini among them, whose genius made the dream a reality. An intriguing final chapter tells of the chance discovery of the bones that many believe to be those of Saint Peter. At the beginning of the book is a time line of the important dates in the building of the Vatican; at the end, are two bibliographies, one for further reading and the other listing works the author has consulted. The book is illustrated with drawings, photographs and maps. 2004, Lucent Books/The Gale Group, Ages 14 up.


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