This Jane's Smart Art Audio Guide is in-depth and indispensable. For art-lovers and history-buffs, it's the smart way to visit St. Peter's Basilica! Huge in both scale and history, St. Peter's can be overwhelming. But with Jane's engaging narration guiding you through this magnificent building, appreciating the art and architecture, step-by-step, in the context of history, you will experience a deep and lasting appreciation of the essence of this remarkable place.
Under construction for more than 150 years, St. Peter's has been witness to physical and spiritual neglect, the devastating Sack of Rome, and the Reformation and Counter-Reformation. It's seen papal corruption and self-interest, as well as exemplary spiritual humility. It has heard the prayers of millions of pilgrims from all over the world.
With Jane as your audio tourguide, you can put away your guidebook and listen while you look at:
Works by Giotto, Michelangelo, Bernini, and many other important artists
Materials and art salvaged from the original 4th-century basilica
Five centuries of exemplary sculpture
Works in bronze, marble, mosaic, stucco, and gilding
A fascinating marriage of Renaissance and Baroque architectureThe 50-minute "Slice of History" background context segment is meant for advance listening. It will fill in gaps in your knowledge to enhance your appreciation of what you'll see on site. Listen to it before leaving home, on the plane, or with a glass of wine the night before your visit.You might take the 20-minute tour of the Piazza beforehand, too. In the evening, the exterior of St. Peter's is brightly illuminated.A printable eight-panel PDF file includes a floor plan keyed to the audio track list, to keep you from getting lost, and a glossary to clarify unfamiliar terms.