Many castles were built during this period, but they are greatly outnumbered by churches. The style can be identified right across Europe, despite regional characteristics and different materials. The overall appearance is one of simplicity when compared with the Gothic buildings that were to follow. Each building has clearly defined forms, frequently of very regular, symmetrical plan. The Romanesque style in England and Sicily is traditionally referred to as Norman architecture.Ĭombining features of ancient Roman and Byzantine buildings and other local traditions, Romanesque architecture is known by its massive quality, thick walls, round arches, sturdy pillars, barrel vaults, large towers and decorative arcading. Examples of Romanesque architecture can be found across the continent, making it the first pan-European architectural style since Imperial Roman architecture. In the 12th century it developed into the Gothic style, marked by pointed arches. There is no consensus for the beginning date of the Romanesque style, with proposals ranging from the 6th to the 11th century, this later date being the most commonly held. Romanesque architecture is an architectural style of medieval Europe characterized by semi-circular arches. Top: Lessay Abbey in Normandy (France) Middle: Collegiate Church in Tum (Poland) Bottom: Maria Laach Abbey (Germany)
