Defining Features of Romanesque Architecture

Building Elements

Vaulting and Cover Systems

Romanesque stone vaulting systems are based on the following elements:

• Semicircular Arch: Formed by a sequence of radial voussoirs, it is used in vaults, aisles, doorways, and other openings.
• Barrel Vault: This vault is often used for the central nave. It is typically reinforced with transverse arches that divide the vault into sections. It rests directly on thick, solid walls, which are reinforced on the exterior with buttresses.
• Groin Vault: Used in the square bays of the side aisles, it is formed by the intersection of two barrel vaults. This design distributes thrusts more effectively, concentrating the weight on the four corners of the section.
• Domes: Used to cover small spaces, a dome is a hemispherical vault that rests on pendentives or squinches.

Supporting Elements

These elements support the weight and transfer the vertical and lateral thrusts from the arches and vaults downwards. They include walls, columns, and pillars.

The walls are thick, built with blocks, and have few openings, reinforced externally by buttresses. The thrust from the arches is absorbed and transferred to the ground by pillars and columns. The column supports interior arcades, and compound pillars are often used.

The Latin Cross Floor Plan

The plan consists of a number of naves arranged longitudinally, separated by arcades. This longitudinal layout directs focus towards the head of the church, or chevet, which is formed by semicircular apses. In pilgrimage churches, an ambulatory (aisle) often surrounds the apse.

The church typically presents three main facades with flared or splayed doorways. The main facade is often flanked by two towers. Monastic churches are arranged around a side cloister.

Exterior and Interior Summary

Exterior: The floor plan is clearly defined, showcasing massive walls with sparse buttresses and few openings. The head of the church features radiating chapels, vaults, and towers.

Interior: The elevation has different solutions. Sometimes the naves are of the same height, but more commonly, the central nave is taller than the side aisles. This allows for a gallery or triforium and, in pilgrimage churches, sometimes a clerestory for illumination.

Formal and Spatial Characteristics

The vaulting system and floor plan determine specific architectural features. Key characteristics include:

• A tendency towards horizontality, based on the longitudinal organization of space.
• A clear dominance of solid mass over empty space (voids).
• Interiors that are often dark or dimly lit. The amount of light depends on the elevation: churches with naves of similar height are darker, while a taller central nave allows for more light.

The style is characterized by clear volumes and precise profiles, seeking pure geometric shapes and decorative austerity. However, the temples are often decorated with reliefs and paintings.

Primary Building Type

The most representative buildings of the Romanesque period are religious in character, primarily churches and monasteries.