Vatican City is the world's smallest sovereign state, and the spiritual heart of one of the world's great religions; the Vatican's worldwide influence is out of all proportion to the tiny physical area it occupies. Through the inside knowledge of the author, Father Michael Collins, and by means of stunning original photography, The Vatican offers a privileged insight into the unique history, traditional ceremonies, priceless treasures, and spectacular architecture of the Vatican.
The book is organized into six sections.
The Vatican Year takes a spectacular visual journey through the great festivals of the Christian calendar, as well as other annual events in the Vatican.
The History of the Vatican traces the chequered story of the papacy from the Crucifixion of St Peter, through the glorious artistic achievements of the Renaissance, to the solemn spiritual messages and moral concerns of the popes of the 21st century.
Architecture examines the legacy of the popes as patrons of architecture, most strikingly in the glories of St Peter's and the Vatican Palace, but also in a photographic tour of the beautiful Vatican Gardens, as well as other churches and buildings connected with the papacy.
How the Vatican Works explains the hierarchy of the Vatican, the cardinals, priests, and lay people who assist the Pope in the administration of the city and in giving direction and guidance to the vast congregation of Roman Catholics around the world.
A Day in the Life focuses on the men and women who spend their working day within the walls of the Vatican, from the churchmen who advise the Pope on matters of faith to the colourful Swiss Guards, who have been responsible for the Pope's safety since the early 16th century.
