Antwerp: the Glory Years by Michael Pye

Original version

BBC Radio 4 FM

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

BBC Radio 4

Radio 4

Radio 4 (FM)

BBC Radio 4 LW

Antwerp: the Glory Years by Michael Pye: 5. Iconoclasm and the Aftermath

5. Iconoclasm and the Aftermath

BBC Radio 4 - Antwerp: the Glory Years by Michael Pye, 5. Iconoclasm and the Aftermath

In the account of the 16th-century city trouble in the cathedral brings about a new order.

The evocative account of the 16th-century city concludes. Trouble in the cathedral leads to a new order, and rebellion. Michael Begley reads.

The evocative account of 16th-century Antwerp concludes. After decades of religious tolerance, trouble in the cathedral leads to a new order, rebellion and exodus from the city.  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

Abridged by Richard Hamilton
Produced by Elizabeth Allard

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Audiobooks

Podcasts

Factual: History

A history of 16th-century Antwerp from the author of The Edge of the World.

Book of the Week. A rich history of 16th-century Antwerp from the author of The Edge of the World.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Antwerp: the Glory Years by Michael Pye

5. Iconoclasm and the Aftermath

Genres

Series

BBC Radio 4 FM

About BBC Radio 4