One influence, as the name implies, is ancient Roman art.
c. 1000 - 1200
The Romanesque is the first international style in Western Europe since antiquity. The transmission of ideas was facilitated by increased travel along the pilgrimage routes and because of the crusades.
By Dr. Andreas Petzold
The first international style since antiquity
The term "Romanesque," meaning in the manner of the Romans, was first coined in the early nineteenth century. Today it is used to refer to the period of European art from the second half of the eleventh century throughout the...
Learn more
By Valerie Spanswick
The name gives it away–Romanesque architecture is based on Roman architectural elements. It is the rounded Roman arch that is the literal basis for structures built in this style.
Ancient Roman ruins (with arches)
All through the regions that were part of the ancient...
Learn more
By Valerie Spanswick
Many of Europe’s medieval cathedrals are museums in their own right, housing fantastic examples of craftsmanship and works of art. Additionally, the buildings themselves are impressive. Although architectural styles varied from place to place, building to building,...
Learn more
By Christine M. Bolli
The end of the world
Y2K. The Rapture. 2012. For over a decade, speculation about the end of the world has run rampant—all in conjunction with the arrival of the new millennium. The same was true for our religious European counterparts who, prior to the year 1000,...
Learn more
Browse Smarthistory images for teaching & learning!
