Romanesque Times!

       Medieval architecture shaped by Roman and Byzantine ideas. The term Romanesque describes a gradual evolution of building techniques that were developed. When the Romanesque period started in the early 800s with the crowning of  Charlemagne, the first holy emperor of Rome, the continuation and advancement of previous designs was encouraged. The Roman influence on design was unique to the different local regions, which explains why many Romanesque buildings may not look the same. Although many castles were built during this time period, the number of churches being built was much greater. After 1000A.D. the growth of church buildings had spiraled up with over one thousand churches having been built within only two hundred years.

Romanesque Church Design Characteristics

      Building plans from the early Christian basilicas were taken and transformed. The nave and transept were modified for spacial reasons. Churches were built larger in general to allow for more worshipers. More aisles, side chapels, and choirs were several additions to come. Semicircular arches and vaults were used in building support. Most roofs were now made of masonry and only smaller churches continued using wood.  

Some architectural characteristics....

-Semicircular arches and vaults

-Arcading - rows of arches supported on piers or columns, one of the most significant features!

-Alternation of piers and columns - piers are rectangular in shape while columns are cylindrical

-Groin vaults - developed to be used for buildings with a wide nave

-Pointed arched vaults

-Facades/Portals - grand entrances

-Towers - single towers or facades with one or two towers 

     The interior would be decorated with tapestries and plastered walls with rich colorful murals in deep, bold colors. Occasional mosaics. Gilded sculptures and gold and silver worship items were some of the elaborate items inside of the church. The use of stained glass became more prevalent with the 11th century.

Ornamentation

       Buildings made of stone most commonly had gorgeous carvings. Life scenes with portraits of Jesus would depict teachings to the many who were illiterate. Ornate decorative mouldings and capitals were also carved.   

Buildings of significance

• Fontenay Abbey - Located in Burgandy, France. Was established by St. Bernard in 1118. Was a religious and economic force at the time. Had an overall austere appearance. Pointed nave arcaves were a design feature. 

• Pisa Baptistery - Located in Pisa, Italy. A compilation of three individual buildings. A cross shaped cathedral, a cylindrical baptistery, and a tall canpanile (the leaning tower). These buildings are made of marble found locally. 

• Cluny Abbey - Also located in Burgandy, France. With a powerful monastic rule and created during the Benedictine movement, it was the most famous abbey of its time. Helped the spread of Romanesque art. Only a small part of the original building remains. 

Romanesque Furniture

       Furniture really only consisted of pieces created for church use. Altars, shrines, throne chairs, tabernacles, storage, tapestries, etc. 

Residential Design

            Homes were made of wood with dirt floors and had primitive design features. Many people died in fires. Nobles lived in stone castles. Living environments were often damp, cool, and dark. 

Designs we see today...

Until next class!