Best Religious Building Architecture Books of 2025

Brunelleschi's Dome by Ross King is a captivating account of the construction of the dome of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, Italy. The book follows Filippo Brunelleschi, a goldsmith and clockmaker, as he spends 28 years solving the puzzles of the dome's construction and reinventing the field of architecture in the process. King weaves this drama amid a background of the plagues, wars, political feuds, and the intellectual ferments of Renaissance Florence to bring the dome's creation to life. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in architectural history and the genius of Renaissance Florence.

Churches of Paris by Acc Art Books is a stunning compendium of 37 of the most beautiful churches in the City of Light. The book is filled with gorgeous color photography and behind-the-scenes historical commentary that narrates how each church was shaped by war, revolution, and time. It also includes information on restoration and preservation, making it an invaluable guide for both Francophiles and curious armchair travelers. This is the first contemporary, English-language book to reflect the history and beauty of Parisian churches, making it a must-have for anyone interested in travel photography books.

Color by Number For Adults Tiffany Windows BLACK BACKGROUND: Numbered Stained Glass Window Coloring Book For Relaxation is a perfect gift idea for anyone who loves coloring. This book features 25 beautiful and unique hand-drawn Tiffany Window illustrations on black paper with black lines. The bonus color by number puzzle pages and single-sided images make it even more enjoyable. You can use any coloring tool of your choice to color the images. This book is perfect for all skill levels and ages, and it's a great way to relieve stress and anxiety.

The book "Cathedrals: Masterpieces of Architecture, Feats of Engineering, Icons of Faith" by Simon Jenkins is a beautiful exploration of the history of Europe through its cathedrals. The author tells the stories behind these stone wonders, from the architects and engineers who made them possible to the artists who enriched their decor. The book is illustrated with color photographs throughout, showcasing the central role of cathedrals in the European imagination. Overall, this book is a masterful blend of insight, authority, and personal reflections that make history accessible to anyone interested in religious building architecture.

"Shinto: The Kami Way" is an excellent introduction to the indigenous faith of the Japanese people. The book provides a comprehensive overview of Shinto's spiritual characteristics, architecture, worship, festivals, and sacred regalia. The author, Dr. Sokyo Ono, a Shinto scholar, gives readers an enlightening window into this fascinating and mysterious religion. The book is well-written and easy to understand, making it perfect for both the casual visitor to Japan and the long-time resident. Overall, "Shinto: The Kami Way" is a must-read for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture.

Understanding Cemetery Symbols by Tui Snider is an invaluable reference book for those interested in genealogy, history, and the meanings behind cemetery symbols. The guide explores the different types of cemeteries and graveyards, the symbolic meanings of various objects found on headstones, and even the history of grave robbing. Snider's engaging writing style and attention to detail make this a must-read for anyone who enjoys exploring historic graveyards. Overall, this book is an excellent resource that sheds light on the forgotten meanings behind cemetery symbols and provides insight into the history of American cemeteries.

Mosques: Splendors of Islam is a visually stunning book that celebrates mosque architecture and Islamic design. With over sixty of the most venerated mosques showcased, including historic monuments and contemporary designs, this book covers their earliest origins in Mecca and Medina to contemporary masterpieces. Essays by prominent architecture and design authorities provide insight into the stylistic transformations of Islam's great dynasties. The book is a GOLD winner for Architecture in the 2017 FOREWORD INDIES Book of the Year Awards. It is a must-have for anyone interested in religious building architecture books and is published by Rizzoli.

Award-winning author and illustrator David Macaulay's "Cathedral: A Caldecott Honor Award Winner" is a classic children's literature book that takes readers on a journey to twelfth to fourteenth-century Europe. Through intricate pen-and-ink illustrations and a clear narrative, Macaulay recreates the building of a French Gothic cathedral from the ground up. This book is a must-read for budding architects and history enthusiasts alike. The book's numerous accolades include a Caldecott Honor and a spot on the New York Times Best Illustrated Book of the Year list. Overall, "Cathedral" is a beautifully crafted book that stands the test of time and deserves a place on every bookshelf.

Divine New York: Inside the Historic Churches and Synagogues of Manhattan is a stunning visual journey through the interiors of Manhattan's houses of worship. Featuring seventy-five sacred edifices, the book showcases the hopes and aspirations of the different communities that helped build the metropolis, expressed in numerous architectural and artistic styles. The lively and informative text by Elizabeth Anne Hartman tells the stories behind each building, and Michael L. Horowitz's photographs capture the breathtaking and inspirational interiors. This book offers a new perspective on the city to New York residents and visitors alike, nourishing both the eyes and soul.

Color by Number For Adults Tiffany Windows is a beautiful coloring book that features 25 hand-drawn stained glass window illustrations of flowers, birds, landscapes, and more. The book includes bonus color by number puzzle pages and features single-sided high-quality paper that is perfect for framing. You can use any coloring tool to bring these mosaic images to life, and the easy numbered color tool provided at the back of the book makes it simple for beginners and seniors. This book is a great gift idea that provides hours of therapeutic coloring and relaxation.