Early Christian Architecture Overview

Study Notes

Early Christian Architecture

Early Christian architecture originated in Rome and Constantinople, expanding throughout Europe and Asia.
Influences on architecture stemmed from geographical, geological, climate, religious, social, political, and historical factors.
Rome's geographical dominance facilitated the spread of architectural styles.
Early structures predominantly used materials salvaged from Roman ruins, impacting the architectural character.
Constantine's decree from Milan established Christianity as the Roman Empire's official religion, shaping architectural choices.
The historical period is marked from Constantine's reign to Gregory the Great's influence.

Architectural Characteristics

Early Christians faced financial constraints, prompting the use of existing Roman structures for worship.
The basilica model became the preferred plan for churches, featuring a central nave and aisles.
Circular churches were designated as baptisteries, promoting the new faith.
Walls constructed from rubble or concrete, with internal mosaics enhancing aesthetic appeal.
Openings included semi-circular arches and clerestory windows to allow light.
Roofs featured wooden constructions with vaulted aisles and domed apses adorned with mosaics.

Key Elements of Basilica Churches

Atrium: A forecourt that provided an imposing entrance, surrounded by arcades.
Narthex: An area for penitents, covered and situated at the church's entry.
Nave: The central aisle, lit by a clerestory of small windows.
Aisles: Smaller passages flanking the nave, generally half its width.
Transept: Modified spaces derived from pagan basilicas, also known as "bema" or "presbytery."
Choir: Section enclosed by low screens or cancelli, typically near the altar.
Altar: Positioned in front of the apse, serving as the focal point for worship.
Baldachino: A canopy that often adorned altars.
Propylaeum: The church entrance area.

Notable Basilicas

St. Peter's Basilica: A pivotal structure built by Constantine featuring triple entrances and wooden roofs with interlocking rafters.
S. Giovanni in Laterano: Another significant five-aisled basilica with similar architectural distinctions.

Baptisteries

Used specifically for baptism rituals.
Architectural forms were adapted from Roman circular temples and tombs.
Notable examples include:
- Baptistery of St. Stefano Rotondo, Rome, Italy.
- Baptistery of Constantine, Rome, Italy, known for its octagonal shape and supported by eight columns.
- Arian Baptistery (Baptistery of Neon), Ravenna, Italy, featuring an octagonal plan and dual arcades.

Tombs

Mausoleum of Sta. Costanza, Rome: Distinguished by its dome supported by granite columns.
Tomb of Galla Placidia, Ravenna: A cruciform structure with sarcophagi and rich mosaic decorations.

Byzantine Architecture

Byzantine architecture is rooted in the geographical and cultural essence of Byzantium, known as "New Rome."
The lack of local building stone necessitated importing marble from the eastern Mediterranean.
The hotter climate influenced building techniques and materials used.
The Orthodox Church's prominence shaped architectural ideals and structures.
Byzantium became a major commercial hub between East and West, affecting architectural trends.
The Byzantine architectural style persisted until the fall of Constantinople in the 15th century.

Description

Explore the origins and characteristics of Early Christian architecture, influenced by historical and geographical factors. Learn about how the basilica model and the use of Roman structures shaped the churches of this era. This quiz covers the significant transitions from Constantine's reign to the impact of Gregory the Great.