Romanesque: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe European architecture that developed in the late 10th century and featured semi-circular arches, thick walls, and sturdy construction. This term is often used in discussions about historical buildings and art history.

• The cathedral's romanesque design is evident in its robust and solid structure.
• We visited a museum that featured romanesque sculptures from the 11th century.

A general term for anything related to the Middle Ages, from the 5th to the late 15th century. This term is used in historical contexts to describe events, culture, architecture, and literature from that period.

• The castle is a fine example of medieval military architecture.
• They enjoyed a lecture on medieval society and its customs.

Describes the style of architecture and art that flourished in Europe from the 12th to the 16th centuries, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. It is often used in discussions about medieval buildings and literature.

• The Gothic cathedral's towering spires evoke a sense of awe and majesty.
• He studied Gothic literature, fascinated by its dark and mysterious themes.

Refers to the architecture, art, and culture of the Eastern Roman Empire, especially noted for its elaborate and detailed design, complex mosaics, and domes. This term is frequently used in artistic and historical contexts.

• The church was adorned with Byzantine mosaics that glittered under the light.
• She wrote a detailed essay about Byzantine influence on early medieval art.

Use the word 'romanesque' to describe a style of architecture and art that was common in Europe during the 9th to the 12th centuries, characterized by semi-circular arches, thick walls, and sturdy pillars.

• The romanesque church had thick walls and semi-circular arches.
• You can see romanesque influences in the heavy stone construction of the old monastery.

Use 'medieval' to refer to anything related to the Middle Ages, the period from the 5th to the late 15th century in European history. It can describe culture, architecture, practices, or anything from that time.

• The museum has an extensive collection of medieval armor and weaponry.
• Some of the medieval practices in medicine seem quite barbaric by today's standards.

The word 'Gothic' is often used to describe a style of architecture that flourished in Europe during the late Middle Ages, known for its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. It can also refer to a genre of literature that involves dark, mysterious, and horror elements.

• The Gothic cathedral towered above the city with its pointed arches and flying buttresses.
• She was a fan of Gothic novels that had elements of horror and mystery.

Use the word 'Byzantine' to refer to the Eastern Roman Empire or the art and architecture from that region, characterized by domes, mosaics, and elaborate detailing. It can also mean something very complex or intricate in a negative way.

• The Byzantine mosaics on the walls of the cathedral were breathtaking.
• Her approach to the project was so byzantine that it left everyone confused.