HSTARC 2 : On Romanesque Architecture

As I’ve discussed in my presentation, Europe has produced Very wide variety of distinct styles but Romanesque architecture was the first one to spread across Europe since the Roman Empire. Romanesque structures is said to belong to a category of architecture known today as picturesque –so named for the elements that comprise a pleasing painting.

Romanesque Architecture was very much influenced by religion and as a result, this period was able to produce such stupendous cathedrals, churches and basilicas. As religion, the crusades and pilgrims spread, the architectural style went with it. I noticed some distinct characteristics that can be observed from Romanesque structures, and these are the its thick walls, round arches, sturdy piers, groin vaults, large towers and decorative arcading which were later on developed in the periods after. Functional planning and building skills improved during this period so they made sure each space had a particular use. They also gave importance to symmetry and proportion which is evident in their structures. It was in this period when people started using stone for ceilings instead of the simple wood which made it possible for them to create vaults which is one of the most important structural developments of the era and even became a major innovation in architectural features through the later centuries. The thick walls of their structures made them sturdy and able to stand till today. Only small windows can be used due to the weight of the stone ceiling to keep the walls as strong as possible. They had a wide variety of columns as well, infused the normal columns used during the Roman period with ornaments. The Romanesque church had an average height, but they aimed to build higher ones and encountered support problems which will be solved in the Gothic period.

Here in the Philippines, although our cathedrals are pretty much a mix of different architectural styles, we know that the Romanesque is the pioneer period of the creation of the great churches and cathedral. Although smaller compared to those in Europe, a good example would be the Cathedral Basilica of La Imaculada Concepcion, more popularly known as the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral which is one of the closest to Romanesque you will find in the country.  You can observe from the picture below that it has a symmetrical plan, ribbed vaults, corinthian columns, two aisles, transepts, an apse behind the altar and has small windows, and carvings on  the doors which depict biblical scenes.

After reading about Romanesque architecture, I hit me more how past periods affect the next. I admire how well thought of their buildings are. Not only did they consider the functions of their structures and the spaces within, but also the aesthetics which to me are magnificent. It’s very admirable how well defined their structures are. Not only did it have very good aesthetics but had remarkable quality. They built structures that lasted hundreds of years that continue to awe men.