This pessimism may explain why Bernini was so intent upon stage-managing his biographies. It could also shed some light on one of his most renowned achievements, The Ecstasy of St. Teresa ...

Saint Teresa of Avila continues to fascinate both ... in masterpieces such as "The Ecstasy" by the Italian sculptor Bernini and a portrait by Rubens or on this infamous wood carving by El Greco.

But baroque art fans might want to brave the crowds for a look at Gian Lorenzo Bernini's Cornaro Chapel, which features the Ecstasy of St. Teresa statue. Santa Maria della Vittoria is nothing ...