European Architectural Evolution: Romanesque to Renaissance

Romanesque and Gothic Religious Architecture

Space-Time Situation and Historical Context

Romanesque Art flourished from the 10th to the 12th century, while Gothic Art developed between the mid-12th and the 15th century.

The Romanesque style stretched across Europe, linked to pilgrimages and religious orders during the High Middle Ages—an era often associated with terror and darkness resulting from invasions. In contrast, Gothic art developed in the Late Middle Ages in France, originating during a time of thanksgiving for the end of the world and a new focus on light.

Evolution, Similarities, and Differences

• Decorative Elements: Both styles maintain decorative and symbolic covers, but the tympanum (eardrum) becomes part of a pointed arch in Gothic design.
• Floor Plans: While both use Latin-cross plans, the transept crossing in Gothic buildings is shorter than in Romanesque ones.
• Structural Features: Archivolts become ogival, and Gothic buildings are significantly taller.
• Light and Space: Gothic structures are more open; the barrel vault disappears, and the ribbed vault is implanted instead. The pointed arch replaces the round arch.
• Support Systems: In Gothic architecture, pillars are supported by flying buttresses, whereas Romanesque relies on thick walls and standard buttresses.
• Artistic Shifts: Fresco painting disappears in favor of stained glass, bringing more light and greater spirituality to buildings.
• Architectural Details: Rose windows and pinnacles appear, while stands disappear in Gothic buildings.
• Sculpture: Sculptures become more human and realistic, and the number of adjacent columns (ribs) increases.

Renaissance Architecture in Florence and Rome

The Quattrocento and Cinquecento Phases

The Renaissance occurred between the 15th century (Quattrocento) and the 16th century (Cinquecento).

The Quattrocento in Florence

Originating in Florence, architects initiated a new movement inspired by direct views of classical Greco-Latin models. The Medici family served as the main patrons for the artists of the moment.

• Style: The architecture follows the tradition of classical orders, preferably the Corinthian order for its decorative richness.
• Elements: Smooth shaft columns or pillars replace balustered Gothic pilasters. It utilizes the round arch and Latin cross, Greek, or basilica plans.
• Roofing: Common features include barrel-vaulted ceilings and coffered wooden decks. The biggest contribution is the use of the dome.
• Main Architects: Brunelleschi (Hospital of the Innocents) and Alberti (Palazzo Rucellai).

The Cinquecento in Rome

The High Renaissance, centered in Rome, is distinguished by a mass effect and the monumentality of its construction lines, moving away from the rich decoration of the previous century. The Popes were the great patrons of this period.

• Great Artists: Bramante (Santa Maria delle Grazie), Michelangelo (St. Peter's, Rome), and Barozzi (Church of the Gesù).