How to Read Churches: A Crash Course in Ecclesiastical Architecture

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.

Author: Denis R. McNamara
Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications
Published: 04/12/2011
Pages: 256
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.85lbs
Size: 6.59h x 5.38w x 0.70d
ISBN: 9780847835980


Review Citation(s):
Choice 08/01/2011
Foreword 02/28/2011
Reference and Research Bk News 10/01/2011 pg. 171

About the Author
Denis McNamara is a former lecturer in architectural history at the University of Virginia and has written two books on Christian architecture. He is currently assistant director of the Liturgical Institute, University of St. Mary of the Lake, Mundelein, Illinois.