Meteorites are among the rarest objects on Earth, yet they have left a lasting mark on our planet and culture. Having arrived amidst noisy explosions and skies of flames, meteorites were once considered messengers of the gods, embodiments of the divine. Prized for their extraordinary qualities, meteorites are collectible items, commodities, and sources of inspiration for artists and writers. The "meteorite hunt" is an adventurous and profitable profession for some and an addictive activity for thousands of others. The book Meteorite: Nature and Culture is a unique, richly illustrated cultural history of these ancient and mysterious phenomena. Maria Golia honors the scientists, scholars, and enthusiasts who have explored the skies and searched the most inhospitable areas of the Earth for meteorites, contributing to the establishment of a work that places our planet and ourselves within the vastness of the Universe. Addressed to collectors and hobbyists, as well as all lovers of nature, wonder, and paradox, this book offers an accessible overview of what science has learned from meteorites, starting from the reluctant acceptance of their space origin and exploring their power to restore that precious, but nearly forgotten human ability - the ability to marvel. Pages: 216, Dimensions: 14.8x14.8cm