Abstract
This paper discusses how the Byzantine and Eastern cultures were the predecessors to the Romanesque and Gothic Periods of architecture in the Christian church. It points out that the Cluniac order had a major influence in the Romanesque Period, which was highlighted with few windows, thick walls, and massive columns. The Gothic period, in contrast, had stained glassed windows, thinner walls, and carved columns, with the builders of the churches incorporating Christian architecture as a means of religious aspiration. It explains that each era?s architecture was a means to specifically convey their social and religious views of the Christian church.

From the Paper
"The term Romanesque ?points to the principle source of the style, the buildings of the Roman Empire. In addition to classical elements, however, Romanesque architecture incorporates components of Byzantine and Eastern origin (unknown, Columbia).? Romanesque structures feature characteristic elements such as "the massive west facade crowned by a tower or by twin towers, the complex design of the eastern part housing the sanctuary, and the rhythmic alternation of piers and columns in the nave (unknown, Columbia)."

Tags:romanesque, gothic, byzantine