After Rome fell, Europe spent a thousand years regaining its footing in the Middle Ages. Its medieval art shows how the light of civilization flickered in humble monasteries and on Europe's fringes: Christian Byzantium, Moorish Spain, and pagan Vikings. Then, around A. D. 1000, Europe rebounded. The High Middle Ages brought majestic castles, radiant Gothic cathedrals, and exquisite art - both sacred and secular - that dazzled pilgrims and princes alike. RICK STEVES ART OF THE MIDDLE AGES explores this fascinating period of European art and architecture.