Popular during medieval times, Romanesque was the first pan-European architectural style after the Imperial Roman architecture. Its typical features were round arches, thick walls, large towers, small windows, and large cylindrical vaults. This sturdy architectural style later evolved into the Gothic style with thinner walls and larger windows through the developments in bearing elements.
Here are some of the most impressive examples of Romanesque architecture around Europe.
Santissima Trinita di Saccargia in the Island of Sardinia
The construction of Santissima Trinita di Saccargia was completed in 1116 and was entrusted to the Camaldolese monks. The frescoes inside the basilica are probably the only example of a well-preserved Romanesque mural painting on the island. The structure stands out with its tall bell tower and its black and white walls made of limestone and volcanic stone ashlars.
Pisa Tower and the Pisa Cathedral
Speyer Cathedral in Germany
Speyer Cathedral was the largest structure in Western Europe when it was built during the 11th century. Unfortunately, a great fire destroyed the cathedral in 1689, then the structure was rebuilt almost the same as the original structure.
Maria Laach Abbey in Germany
Founded in 1093, Maria Laach Abbey is a member of the Benedictine Confederation. The structure is also a great example of German Romanesque architecture with its multiple towers, a large arcade gallery, and a courtyard called the Paradise.
Worms Cathedral in Germany
Largely constructed by 1181, Worms Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church with 13th-century vaulting and a west choir. It is famous for housing the graves of the Salian Dynasty, a medieval German royal line of Holy Roman Emperors. Despite the damage during the Second World War, the structure remained largely intact.
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Spain
San Miniato Basilica in Florence
