Comparing Romanesque Architecture Discussion

Post answers to the following:

How would you compare Early Christian basilican architecture (discussed in Module 8) with that of Romanesque churches?

In your opinion, what was the most significant structural change?

Respond to at least one classmate’s post by offering additional details or ideas, a different perspective, or links to interesting, relevant articles or websites. Conclude with a question or new idea to further stimulate the discussion.

classmate’s reasponse ( In Chapter 8: Late Antiquity, the textbook discusses Old Saint Peter’s basilica in the context of the expectations of how a church should be built. When Constantine first recognized Christianity and was its first imperial sponsors, Christians in Rome aimed to construct churches much differently than the typical polytheistic shrines. Instead, they mimicked the Roman basilica, creating a space designed for congregation, with a large nave with flanking aisles. In Chapter 12: Romanesque Europe, the authors of the textbook discuss the architecture of Romanesque churches, including Notre Dame in France. The authors mention that architects begin to focus on the acoustics of churches, as well as fireproofing these buildings as compared to previous timber-roofed structures. However, in contrast to the Roman basilicas, the Romanesque churches did not provide adequate natural lighting within the buildings. Architects found a solution to this issue by building groin vaults from concrete instead of barrel vaults. I believe that the use of concrete is the most significant structural change, and the beauty of these houses of worship is brilliantly represented by Sant’Ambrogio in Milan, Italy.)

How would you compare Early Christian basilican architecture (discussed in Module 8) with that of Romanesque churches?

The significant architecture differences between the early Christian basilica and Romanesque churches is their floor decorations and plans. Early Christian basilicas churches were strategically planned at central points with wide open spaces, aisle and a centrally placed nave while the Romanesque churches were very tall rectangular in shape with the aisle located at the sides.