Author: José Luis Aulet.
The history of Spanish diplomacy in Rome and the palace that is its current headquarters are the subject of La embajada española ante los papas (The Spanish embassy to the popes), by José Luis Aulet. The history of the Spanish embassy to the Holy See is the history of an extremely singular relationship, both in terms of its antiquity and its importance.
Considered for centuries the most desirable, lively and brilliant diplomatic destination of our diplomacy, it was held by many prominent figures – dukes, generals, cardinals, a good number of presidents of government – who, from Rome, were confirmed as the very centre of Spanish foreign policy.
Now, in a secularised world of contested identities, when both powers seemingly appear in twilight, it is worth asking what a history of diplomatic relations between Spain and the Holy See can contribute. But the answer lies in the many rich experiences it reveals or confirms: how disinformation is misinformed, demagogy, the abuse of the weak, the limits that brazenness or lies can reach even among allies, the need to warn ourselves against all, be they countries, ideologies, politicians or interests; against Europe itself, against the East, against the other side of the Atlantic, against the Church as an institution.
The very seat of the embassy, the Palace of Spain – a work by Borromini – reflects the importance of the legation and the interest of the Spanish monarchs in reflecting the splendour of their crown in such an exceptional showcase for the world as the Eternal City was and is. In its rooms were left paintings, tapestries, furniture, architectural reforms and traditions that are still worthy of admiration today and which it is essential to stop and admire both for their historical or artistic value and for the symbolic implications that they contain.
Pages: 347
Publisher: ARENAS PUBLICACIONES
Binding: Soft cover
ISBN: 9788412067286
RPP: 36 euros
