European Romanesque Architecture: Civil and Regional Styles

Civil Architecture

In terms of civil architecture, the preserved samples are too few to define general characteristics; however, the most common are castles, which served an obvious defensive function. Castles were erected in strategic, high locations. The building was surrounded by a thick stone wall with gated entrances. Inside stood the tallest, most fortified tower, known as the torre maestra. Castles were fortified residences where feudal lords lived and served as a place of refuge for the inhabitants of the manor.

French Romanesque Architecture

A representative example of French Romanesque is the Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene in Vézelay. It exhibits distinct French architectural features, such as the use of barrel vaults, two-color segments, columns with attached shafts, and galleries with two distinct zones.

Zone de Provence

Temples in this region typically feature a single nave with wooden decks. There is a significant Islamic influence, most visible in structures like Saint-Trophime in Arles. This style features the bending of the arch leading to the Corinthian capital archivolts. Decorative themes are relatively standard, often featuring the Tetramorph and the Pantocrator in the pediment.

Zone of Normandy

These structures are characterized by minimal roof weight, the use of wooden decks, and sparse, geometric decoration.

English Romanesque Architecture

English Romanesque architecture is defined by temples with very elongated arms. It utilizes vaults that anticipate later Gothic styles, as well as blind arches, as seen in Ely Cathedral. Columns are initially very thick but evolve to become thinner over time. Toward the end of the Romanesque period, the rose window appears. Notable examples include Norwich Cathedral.

Italian Romanesque Architecture

Italian Romanesque is divided into several distinct regional zones:

Lombardy

Characterized by the use of numerous Lombard bands that cover the facade. Note the shape of the capitals, which are cubic at the top but rounded at the bottom. Churches in this area feature many porches or galleries covering the apses and facades. The crowning of the church often features a classic pediment and a rose window. Examples include Modena Cathedral and Parma Cathedral.

Rome

This area shows a strong influence from Roman basilicas, utilizing marble mosaics to decorate walls, pulpits, and pavements, as seen in the Faculty of Letters.

Tuscany

This region maintains a strong tradition of using colored marble. An example is the Cathedral of San Miniato, which features a wooden roof and decorative colored marble. It utilizes the arch and is crowned by a pediment.