The Secret Language of Churches & Cathedrals: Decoding the Sacred Symbolism of Christianity's Holy Buildings Hardcover – September 7, 2010

For those interested in art and architecture, Richard Stemp's analysis of the symbolism embodied in the fabric of churches will provide another dimension of thought and study.Not only is the book a joy to read because of its stunning illustrations and elegant language, but Stemp's attention to detail priovides the reader wiuth a deeper insight into many of the things we take for granted when we look into our great churches.Covering not only among other things as things as gargoyles and columnar statuary, but also the paintings that adorn the altars and walls, the author deftly provides a narrative to the accomplishments of centuries of inspired artisans.

I love books of church architecture. For me Rome was like Catholic Disneyland. However, I also like classical music and my problem with classical music is the same as it is with looking at churches - I can't figure out the eras or the styles, let alone recognize the work of a certain architect. If this is you I would buy the book. If for no other reason, you could spend a lifetime occasionally picking it up and turning to any page at random and find something enjoyable. I can't say to much more because it only came a few months ago but I knew from the first I would love it.

Whether theory or fact this is a fun and thought-provoking read. Having visited churches in many countries, and, no doubt, more to come, I will look at them with a different perspective.

This book exceeded my expectations on every level. It is written by an serious author who clearly researched his subject and has not allowed himself to be corrupted by revisionist history or political correctness. The photographs are large and beautifully reproduced;every detail the author refers to is plainly visible.The text is reserved and restrained, but contains a wealth of information and detail.Everything about this book is exceptional, from the quality of the writing to the quality of the paper. It even has a ribbon bookmark. When is the last time you saw one of those?

Gave this as a gift to my Mom & she loves it. Very pleased with purchase. Delivery was a day late but I was notified & it got here in plenty of time for when I needed it. Hardcover book & jacket were both in perfect condition. It is a nice sized book to hold & read as well as enjoy photos & a bonus put on a coffee table.... Not too unwieldy as some traditional coffee table books can be.

I had only the description to go by and was concerned that it wouldn't meet my needs. It was more that I could have expected. It's a large coffee table sized book. That does make it awkward to read --and it has such good information you want to do more than look at the wonderful photographs. However, the large size does allow for a better view of the pictures.

Interesting subject matter. However, a good amount of subject matter wasn't covered: e.g. stained glass windows, symbols used by the early churches on tiles, graves, mosaics, etc.

Too much text. I was looking for photos of cathedral interiors. There are some but there are too many photos of small areas and articles within the church rather than long shots of Naves and Chapels.

A richly illustrated introduction. There is much to appreciate in this book even if you think you are a skilled church crawler.

I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review (And then bought a hard copy)I love visiting churches, mosques and other sacred spaces, and when I came across this title, I just knew it was for me. The book is filled with wonderful photographs and drawings to illustrate its points. Quite a few of the churches I have already visited (I spent about 4 days just walking round and round the cathedral at Chartres), and the rest are now on my to-do list. Even those places that I have been, I often now see the need to revisit as the book has highlighted a feature that I hadn’t previously noticed or paid enough attention to.It is a book that makes you want to explore more and more of the ecclesiastical world, and that gives you the tools to better appreciate and understand what you are experiencing.The book starts with the exterior church, and explains how the structures were both an invitation and a reminder to worship. The churches made concrete the symbol of protection of the parishioners, and also advertised the power, wealth and might of both the church and the surrounding community.I am not particularly religious, but cannot help but be overawed when I enter a large church or cathedral – particularly a gothic one. The vast spaces and the height of the buildings just draw you upwards, so that even if you don’t believe in God, you are made aware of something that is much greater than you. As the book clearly states, this is exactly what the church designers had in mind – a stunning impact on the senses and a lifting and exultation of the spirits.The paintings, frescoes, statuary and stained glass were initially to educate the illiterate congregations about the Christian religion, and now provide subsequent generations with a treasure trove of beauty and sublime art.The exteriors and interiors of churches have changed over time, as the needs and practices of the clergy and parishioners have changed, and this book spells out some of the major influences on church structure and decoration, from the early church, through the glories of Byzantium, the “dark ages”, the protestant reformation, and up to modern times.My only possible complaint about this book is that it is not long enough. I want more – more pictures, even more history and analysis. I know that is unreasonable, as any book that would fully satisfy me would be too expensive to publish or buy, and far too bulky to read. So this is the best available right now.I downloaded the book via NetGalley onto my computer, but it is too good to just have that. I have to have a hard copy, and have just ordered one from Amazon. I feel that it won’t be the last copy that I buy, as it will make a wonderful for friends and family who, like me, love visiting and admiring churches.