St. Peter’s in the Vatican

St. Peter’s in the Vatican, one of the most important buildings in Western architecture, has a long and turbulent history. First constructed in the fourth century to honor the tomb of St. Peter, it gained enormous prestige as a repository of holy relics, objects and events during the course of the Middle Ages. After the return of the papacy from Avignon in the fifteenth century, the Early Christian edifice was gradually torn down and replaced by the new structure now in place. The history of the design and construction of this new building spans several centuries and involved several of the most brilliant architects, including Bramante, Michelangelo and Bernini, of the early modern period. This volume presents an overview of St. Peter’s history from the late antique period to the twentieth century.

• Comprehensive history of world renowned monument • Heavily illustrated • Major scholars of the field involved

1. Introduction William Tronzo; 2. Peter and Constantine Glen W. Bowersock; 3. The use and meaning of Spolia at St. Peter’s Dale Kinney; 4. Est haec sacra principis aedes: the Vatican basilica from Innocent III to Gregory IX (1198–1241) Antonio Iacobini; 5. Renaissance St. Peter’s Christof Thoenes; 6. Michelangelo to Marchionni, 1546–1784 Henry A. Millon; 7. Bernini at St. Peter’s: Singularis in singularis, in omnibus unicus Irving Lavin; 8. St. Peter’s in the modern era: the paradoxical colossus Richard Etlin; 9. Appendix: Theatres for the canonisation of saints: the architectural structures for celebrating the ceremony Alessandra Anselmi.

\'This collection … provides much useful information about the history and influence of this building … Perhaps the most fascinating essay for the general reader is the final one by Richard A. Etlin which shows how the great church, especially its dome, has influenced not only other great churches … but also secular structures such as the ornate shopping gallery in Milan or the Capitol Building in Washington. This book will add greatly to the knowledge of anyone who cherishes this glory of Western Civilization.\' Contemporary Review