Romaneque and Islamic

ROMANESQUE AND ISLAMIC

By: Ruth Ramos

ROMANESQUE

In a time when religious movements were on the rise, with 1,587 churches being built within a decade, it was a time of rich architecture and intricate designs. This time was praised for its architecture and design styles. Lets explore a few! The Romanesque churches had semicircular arches and vaults. These churches were adapted from preadapted basilicas, both from secular and Early Christian basilicas. A distinction from the previous basilicas was the addition of the side chapel in the wider transept. The wider space allowed for multiple isles, better lighting, vaulting, and room for a greater crowd, including a choir. The three types of churches consisted of Urban Pilgrimage, Rurual Monasteries, and Modest Parish Churches. This time was an expansion of previous designs. The architecture contained rich tapestries, masonry roofs, gilded sculptures, and much more.

This time period offered new pieces of furniture such as the Throne of Dagobert, the throne of Charlemagne, and a tabernacle. The residential homes of a typical person were made of wood, mud, dirt floors, and twigs, with minimal light, creating a cooler environment. Nobles, however, had stone castles. Due to the wood structure, many neighborhoods were susceptible to fire hazards.

ISLAMIC

The Islamic religion was the base of Islamic design, with Mohammed being the head of the religion. The design widespread throughout Africa, Europe, and Asia varying from region to region. The mosque was the center of religious life for prayer and worship. Mosques contained a perimeter wall, a covered hall of columns, and a courtyard. Some mosques had walls that looked like carpets, stained glass windows, geometric, and nonrepresentational decor. 

ONE STEP FURTHER

Mimar Sinan (1539-1588)

A very distinct architect is Mimar Sinan. Sinan was the chief architect and civil engineer of the Ottoman Empire. His most famous works include the Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul and the Selimiye Mosque in Edirne, both very well-celebrated pieces for their impactful and innovative design. Sinan's architectural style combined classical elements with functional design, greatly influencing the development of mosque architecture and leaving a long-lasting legacy.

FAVORITE ARCHITECTURE: PAST

Suleymaniye Mosque in Instanbul, Turkey. Built in the Ottoman Empire.

This mosque simply has stunning architecture and such a beautiful design.

Mosque of Sultan Ahmed in Istanbul, Turkey. 

Another very stunning mosque with beautiful shapes and structures, the view is astonishing.

Throne of Dagobert

I find this throne very interesting in its design, I simply can't stop looking at it.

FAVORITE ARCHITECTURE: PRESENT

Forum Shops at Caesar Palace, Las Vegas

This place has an extraordinary interior but such beautiful aspects and aesthetics. 

Natural History Museum in London

Arches! Such a beautiful place to be, it would be great to see it in person some day.

Nasir al-Musk Mosque in Shiraz, Iran. Also known as the "Pink Mosque".

Absolutely stunning. The way the light reflects off the stained glass creates a very vibrant mosque. Similar to the one we studied in class.