The History of the Popes (Vol. XXII) : From the Close of the Middle Ages provides an in-depth exploration of papal history based on the Vatican's secret archives. This volume focuses on the pivotal era of the Catholic resurgence and the architectural and urban transformation of Rome undertaken by Pope Sixtus V. Key events of this period include Pope Sixtus V’s reshaping of Rome through new street layouts, massive construction projects, and monumental fountains, as well as papal efforts and strategies to stem the tide of dissent and restore Catholic influence in Germany, the Netherlands, Hungary, and Switzerland through the agency of bishops, Jesuits, and diplomatic envoys. This comprehensive work spans a total of 40 volumes chronicling the history of 56 popes.