Running head: ROMANESQUE VS. GOTHIC ARCHITECTURE

1

Romanesque vs. Gothic Architecture WGU Humanities IWT 1

ROMANESQUE VS. GOTHIC ARCHITECTURE Romanesque vs. Gothic Architecture Romanesque architecture, one of the most important styles of European art that developed during the Middle Ages in a time of heavy religious fervor. During the Romanesque period devout Christians would undertake long pilgrimages in order to visit and venerate the relics of saints and martyrs. Large numbers of people moved from one monastery to another creating travel routes which would later become trade routes. Because of this large influx of people, churches were built large enough to hold hundreds of people. Romanesque architecture style was one of the first to build entirely with stone materials instead of wood because stone was the only thing that would support the heavy roofs. The

2

structure was massive, boxy and low to the ground. Round Roman arches, thick walls, and small windows are typical of the buildings. All Romanesque architecture was built to make a statement of power and wealth. Romanesque buildings were not just churches, abbeys, and monasteries; they also encapsulated the castles. These castles were used as power sources and were built to be sturdy and long lasting during times of war. This meant that buildings were serviceable, durable, defensive, and strong, but not very creative. The Gothic style grew out of the Romanesque architectural style, when both prosperity and peace allowed for several centuries of cultural development and great building schemes. Gothic style architecture included grand cathedrals which had tall skyscraper-like towers. This design was deliberate, a way to get people to look up to the sky and think of God. Gothic structures emphasize the vertical and represented faith, dedication, and cooperation. Gothic style has three main