Secrets of the Vatican 2008
Distributed byDetroit Public TV, Riley Broadcast Center, 1 Clover Court, Wixom, MI 48393-2247; 248-305-3788
Produced by Przemyslaw Hauser and Krzysztof Masztalerz
Directed by Pawel Pitera, Krzysztof Talczewski
DVD, color, 5 DVD set (ca. 7 hr., 37 min.)
Jr. High - Adult
Art History, Art Education, Christianity, Religious Studies, Roman Catholic Church Government, Vatican City History, Travel and Tourism
Date Entered: 07/15/2009
Reviewed by Ernarosa Tominich, MLS, Trocaire College Library, Buffalo NYSecrets of the Vatican is an excellent and complete documentary production of iconic representation about Vatican City. It originally aired on Public Television in 2006. It includes an interview entitled, "Discovering secrets of the Vatican Highlights" with Father Michael Collins author and researcher on Vatican history. The series includes a spectacular tour and overview of Vatican art and architecture including St. Peter’s Cathedral and the Sistine Chapel. Also noteworthy are facts about the Pope’s private gardens and garden buildings. Other curiosities pertain to archeological digs such as the chance discovery of St. Peter’s bones in a sidewall of his tomb and related particulars. The Vatican is a city-sate, separate and apart from the government of Italy. As such it has its own post office, police force, tax-exempt gasoline stations, and food commissary. Vatican City government operations pose some unique challenges. The narrative includes functions and duties of the Cardinals as a collective governing body, and the distinctive ritual of selecting a new Pope. Related papal narrative focuses on the history, selection and daily routine of the Swiss Guards, famous protectors of His Holiness.
Secrets of the Vatican is a highly recommended quality production. As such it is likely to pique the curiosity and maintain a high level of interest from students, researchers, scholars and the general public.