This volume's richly illustrated, large-format pages generously present the great Christian structures and, combined with an expert but accessible text, enable the reader to follow and understand the continuing development of Basilicas and Cathedrals through the ages, from their early Christian, Romanesque and Gothic origins, through their evolution during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, to the crystallization of the Neoclassic language and the styles of the modern age. The book traces the history of these extraordinary monuments of Faith, describing their continuous transformation from the point of view of, architectural language, construction methods, liturgical requirements, and decorative schemes. The aim of "Cathedrals and Basilicas" is to offer readers an absolutely unique overview of Christianity seen through its architectural creations, the great symbols of Faith and power. It showcases many of mans greatest architectural achievements and features 35 Cathedrals and Basilicas from around the world.