Heavenly City: The Architectural Tradition of Catholic Chicago

by Denis R. McNamara

This visually stunning and carefully researched book encompasses many of the most significant churches of the Archdiocese of Chicago, addressing both their architectural and theological significance. The insightful and readable text is lavishly illustrated throughout with full-color photographs, creating a book suitable for those interested in local history, architectural achievement, theological insight, or who simply desire to glory in the visual beauty of Chicago’s churches. • Features 68 churches and chapels, in many of Chicago’s principal city neighborhoods and suburbs • Over 250 striking color photographs • The scholarly yet accessible text addresses church buildings as both examples of architectural movements and sacramental images of the heavenly city of Jerusalem (Revelation 21:1) • Broad appeal for pilgrims, architects, and historians, both casual visitors and serious scholars Hardcover, 9 1/2 x 13, 160 pages.

Genres: Nonfiction, Catholic, Architecture

160 pages, Hardcover

First published October 5, 2005

About the author

B.A., History of Art, Yale University; M.Arch.H. and Ph.D., Architectural History, University of Virginia.

His articles and reviews have appeared in Arris, Chicago Studies, Communio, Homiletic and Pastoral Review, Assembly, Sacred Architecture, Letter and Spirit, and Environment and Art Letter.

Dr. McNamara's academic specialties include the theology of liturgical art and architecture, classicism, and sacramental aesthetics.

He's a member of the Society of Architectural Historians, Society for Catholic Liturgy and the Institute for Classical Architecture. He serves as assistant director at the Liturgical Institute of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary, and as a liturgical design consultant.

Reviews

[Beth Neu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a GREAT resource! I checked it out from our local library prior to setting out on a self-guided tour of historic Chicago Catholic Churches and what a resource it proved to be! The explanations of the architectural styles and ornamentations are great and the photography is stunning! Thank you, Mr. McNamara for putting this book together.