Basilica: The Splendor and the Scandal: Building St. Peter's

by R. A. Scotti Narrated by Josephine Bailey

Overview

It was the splendor-and the scandal-of the age. In 1506, the ferociously ambitious Renaissance Pope Julius II tore down the most sacred shrine in Europe-the millennium-old St. Peter's Basilica built by the Emperor Constantine over the apostle's grave-to build a better basilica. Construction of the new St. Peter's spanned two centuries, embroiled twenty-seven popes, and consumed the genius of the greatest artists of the age-Michaelangelo, Bramante, Raphael, and Bernini. The cost of building the new cathedral was costly in more than just monetary terms-the new basilica provoked the Protestant Reformation, dividing the Christian world for all time.



In this swift, colorful narrative, R. A. Scotti brings to life the artists and the popes, the politics and the passions behind this audacious enterprise. Scotti turns sacred architecture into a spellbinding human epic of enormous daring, petty jealousy, and staggering genius.

Editorial Reviews

The Providence Journal-Bulletin

[Scotti] ... appreciates the epic quest and querulousness and leaves us wondering how anything of any merit ever gets designed, built, consecrated and celebrated.

Wall Street Journal

Astonishes. A sweeping account of the largest assemblage of artistic genius on any project in history.

Entertainment Weekly

With her vivid portrayals, Scotti turns a potentially dry architectural tale into a Vatican version of Dynasty.

National Review

A fair and fascinating examination of splendorous and scandalous events. Scotti is a dramatic storyteller.

Publishers Weekly

Absorbing. A fascinating tale of genius, power, and money.

First Things

A lovely book, filled with historical detail and lively depictions. Captures an extraordinary period in the Church's life.
—Richard John Neuhaus

Product Details

BN ID:	2940170812752
Publisher:	Tantor Audio
Publication date:	07/14/2006
Edition description:	Unabridged

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