Temples of Knowledge

This book offers a visual journey into the pre-eminent libraries of Europe through the eyes of photographer Ahmet Ertuğ and the librarians of these institutions. Thirty unique and magnificent historical libraries are presented, including Baroque monastic foundations, royal institutions and civic establishments of the 19th century. Historical essays tell the story of libraries in antiquity and their development until the 19th century. Throughout history libraries have been havens of peace and tranquility, places where people come to read research or simply contemplate and find serenity of mind. Many of the monastic libraries also contain rich and decorative schemes (statues, stucco work, frescoes) which express the religious debates of their time. These iconographic programs are also illustrated and discussed, adding an important art historical aspect to the volume. In the pages of this book, the libraries of the Western World have been displayed in their full splendor and their history told in expertly written essays. Photographed with a large format view camera, the images express the vision of Ahmet Ertuğ and take the reader on a journey through the spaces of these ancient libraries. The text contains essays written by experts and historical information by professional librarians. Historical essays by Friedrich Krinzinger, thematic essay by Thierry Grillet.