How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture By Denis R. McNamara

Small enough to fit in a pocket yet serious enough to provide real answers, this primer is a must have for architecture and history buffs, tourists, and churchgoers interested in decoding the styles and symbols of religious buildings. Every building contains clues embedded in its design that identify not only its architectural style but also who designed it, what kind of congregation it was built for, and why. This practical yet charming handbook is the key to decoding the style, history, evolution, and social significance of religious buildings. Not strictly limited to churches, it also covers abbeys, chapels, and monasteries, among other structures. Organized according to architectural element (windows, domes, arches, etc.), each element is presented in chronological order. Additional chapters explore the architectural influence of geography, history, and various creeds, along with an illustrated timeline showing how, where, and in many cases why certain church features evolved through the centuries. There is also a useful introduction to naming each component of a church, from vaults to buttresses and transepts to apses. All entries are illustrated with period engravings and line drawings. This book will be invaluable for architecture buffs and anyone who has ever wondered why classic New England churches are white with little ornament, why Quaker meetinghouses have no altars, or why Episcopalians traditionally favored the Gothic style.

How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture

Denis R. McNamara ↠ 3 characters

Excellent pocket sized book How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture Buena información pero muy incompleta y superficial. Recomendable para principiantes en el tema How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture This was a fascinating book. I could not believe how much information is packed on the pages of this small book. I wanted to immediately buy copies to give out as gifts to friends who I knew would appreciate the sketches, the information, the history lesson. Recommended! How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture This small, easily portable book introduces a wide scope of topics pertaining to the architecture of churches, all the way from floor plans to stained glass.Its apparent simplicity clearly derives from major research and editorial work. The text is short and to the point and emphasis is placed on illustrations. Consistently, these are monochrome drawings. They succeed in focussing attention on concepts rather than on individual buildings as photographs would have. The lay out is both contemporary and attractive.This work is very strongly recommended, both as an introduction or a refresher on the topic and as a travel companion. How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture if the book wasn't so tiny it would get 5 stars! I was hoping for a full size book, but even though its only about 6 inches tall, its packed full of information and diagrams. Awesome! How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture

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