It is huge in both scale and history, and it can be overwhelming. But with Jane's narration guiding you through this magnificent church - appreciating it step-by-step in the context of its long and tumultuous history – you will come away with a deep and lasting appreciation of the essence of this remarkable place.
Jane's audio guide will immerse you in the historical context of the art, politics, culture and religion that have intertwined over centuries to create the unique character of the Cathedral. In the vast, awe-inspiring interior of St. Peter’s, what could easily have been overwhelming volume and mass has been scaled into an accessible frame of human reference. The profusion of decorative elements, because of the sheer massiveness of scale, serves to unify the parts, creating harmony rather than chaos.
Among the treasures you'll consider while touring with this Jane's Smart Art audio guide, are:
• Works by Giotto, Michelangelo, and Bernini;
• Materials and art salvaged from the original 4thC basilica;
• Five centuries of exemplary sculpture;
• Work in bronze, marble, stucco, mosaic, and gilding; and
• A fascinating marriage of Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
Jane offers insights for art-lovers and history buffs who want more than just the highlights about what they’re seeing. Unlike audio walking tours, this audio guide is site-specific, penetrating deep into the essence of this single remarkable church.
The high quality of this engaging audio guide allows you to experience the richness of history and the character of the place like never before. The audio guide conveys an extraordinary wealth and variety of information. It’s like having a knowledgeable, stimulating travel companion, or like having your own top-notch private tour guide.
Your tour of the interior of St. Peter’s can be tailored to your interest and schedule - without loss of continuity - by simply skipping specified tracks - from a Highlights Tour of 1¾ hours, to an In-Depth Tour of 2½ hours.
• Context Guide "Slice of History" - 50 Minutes
• On-site Guide to Piazza & Exterior - 20 Minutes
• On-Site Guide to Interior (customizable) - 100 to 150 Minutes
The "Slice of History" background segment is for listening before visiting the site. The Guide to the Exterior can be listened to while standing in the security line, and the tour of the interior can be tailored to accommodate your own interests and schedule, from 90 to 130 minutes. An 8-page companion booklet contains floorplans, track list, glossary and tips. Other titles available for sites in Italy: Sta. Maria del Popolo in Rome and Fra Angelico at San Marco in Florence. Also Our Lady Cathedral in Antwerp, Belgium. More titles will be added soon.
Notes:
The audio guide is available on CD (3 discs)($24.95) or downloadable MP3 ($17.95).
Required: a portable audio player (CD, iPod or MP3) and earphones. Two people can share single guide by plugging a “y-adapter” into one player. The audio guide must be purchased in advance of your visit to St. Peter's, from our site or from your favorite bookseller.
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