Antwerp: the Glory Years by Michael Pye

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Antwerp: the Glory Years by Michael Pye: 2. Ringing the Changes

2. Ringing the Changes

BBC Radio 4 - Antwerp: the Glory Years by Michael Pye, 2. Ringing the Changes

In this vivid account, a new bell announces the 16th-century city's new found power.

In this vivid account, the casting of a new and great bronze bell announces the 16th-century city's new found power.  Michael Begley reads.

In this vivid account of the 16th-century city the casting of a new and great bronze bell announces Antwerp's  new found power in a world where money reigns.  Michael Begley reads.

This vivid and lively account of Antwerp's glory years takes us back to the 16th century when the city is transformed into a rich and cultured European powerhouse. Michael Begley reads.

Michael Pye's history of Antwerp is a fascinating account of the city during its golden age. Told through character studies, novels, paintings, songs, inventories and city ordinances, an evocative portrait emerges.  Transformed into a trading powerhouse, nationals from all over Europe converged in Antwerp, making deals and enjoying  the free and easy manners in a place where scandal and heresy was tolerated, and fortunes could be made almost over night.  It's not long before religious divisions, and bellicose heads of state bring about an end to the city's tolerance, and its financial prowess.

Michael Pye is the author of twelve previous books which have been translated into fifteen languages. He has worked as a journalist, broadcaster and columnist in London and New York. 

Image:  Salve Felix Antverpia, anonymous woodcut. KU Leuven. Special Collections

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2. Ringing the Changes

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