Romanesque And Gothic Architecture History Essay Paper (Essay Sample)

ROMANESQUE AND GOTHIC ARCHITECTURE
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Romanesque architecture is an architectural style also known as the Roman style of Medieval Europe, characterized by high semi-circular arches that also make it possible for the structure to use less supporting material such as pillars. Although there is no consensus for the beginning date of the style, with proposals ranging from the 6th to the 10th centuries, examples can be found across the continent, making Romanesque architecture the first pan-European architectural style since Imperial Roman Architecture. The Romanesque style in England is more traditionally referred to as Norman architecture CITATION Vic08 \l 1033 (Charles, 2008).
Combining features of Western Roman and Byzantine buildings, Romanesque architecture is known by its massive quality, its thick walls, round arches, sturdy piers, groin vaults, large towers and decorative arcading. Each building has clearly defined forms and they are frequently of very regular, symmetrical plan so that the overall appearance is one of simplicity when compared with the Gothic buildings that were to follow. The style can be identified right across Europe, despite regional characteristics and different materials.