The quarries in Carrara are where Michelangelo used to travel to get the marble he used for his masterpieces. In
Michelangelo’s
Mountain: The Quest for Perfection in the Marble Quarries of Carrera, author Eric Scigliano retraces the journeys
of the renowned artist, focusing on his trips to get marble for famous sculptures such as the Pieta, David and Moses.
The book also tells the tale of Scigliano’s ancestral connections to the quarrymen of the region. Publisher’s
Weekly notes that the book may be a bit too much historical detail on top of personal story, but it has still
received praise as a captivating read unearthing an original and creative concept. From Kirkus Reviews: “A
lively blend of art history and travelogue….An affectionate, gracefully written portrait of a little-known place that
has suffered much pain to bring the world great beauty.”