ARCH 249 Fall 2024 Exam 3 Study Guide PDF

ARCH 249 Fall 2024 (Glowacki) – Final Study Guide for Exam #3 What are the name and location of this building? - Palatine Chapel, Aachen, Germnay What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - Carolingian Period What was/is the function of this building? - Originally,...

ARCH 249 Fall 2024 (Glowacki) – Final Study Guide for Exam #3 What are the name and location of this building? - Palatine Chapel, Aachen, Germnay What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - Carolingian Period What was/is the function of this building? - Originally, it served as Charlemagne’s private chapel, a space for worship and religious ceremonies. - Later, it became part of the Aachen Cathedral and serves as a significant Christian pilgrimage site. Who commissioned this building and what was its intended purpose? - Charlemagne, Holy Roman Emperor - served as a political and religious symbol of Charlemagne’s reign, embodying his role as a unifier of the Holy Roman Empire under Christian authority. Who was the architect/designer of this building? - Odo of metz What materials were used in this building’s construction? Where did this material come from? - Marble (used for columns and decorative elements). - Mosaic tiles (for the dome and interior decoration). - Spolia (reused Roman columns and materials) - Sourced from Italy Recalling what we have learned in the section of ARCH 249 about Roman architecture in Spain, what Roman influence can you detect in this building’s decorative program?  - Rounded Arches: Reflect the use of Roman architectural forms. - Spolia: Reused Roman columns from earlier imperial buildings. - Central Plan Design: Inspired by Roman and Byzantine centralized religious structures like San Vitale in Ravenna. - Mosaic Decorations: Reflect Roman and Byzantine aesthetic traditions. Recalling what we have learned in the section of ARCH 249 about early Islamic architecture in Spain, what Islamic influence can you detect in this building’s decorative program? Polychrome Voussoirs: Alternating colored stones in arches, a hallmark of Islamic architecture (e.g., the Great Mosque of Córdoba). Calligraphic and Geometric Patterns: While less pronounced than in Islamic architecture, there are hints of geometric order reminiscent of Islamic styles. Domical Space: The dome construction reflects the influence seen in Islamic structures, emphasizing verticality and heavenly symbolism. How do the following terms apply to this site and monument? Explain. Point out. Central plan: an octagonal central core Book-matched marbles: byzantine influence, symmetrical arrangement of marbel slabs Rounded arch Arcade: two-story arcade Polychrome voussoirs: Mosaic: The chapel’s dome is adorned with mosaics depicting Christ in Majesty Porphyry: A rare purple stone symbolizing imperial authority, prominently used in the decoration of the chapel. Spolia Inscription/calligraphy Westwork: The west-facing façade of the Palatine Chapel includes a monumental entrance with a throne room, symbolizing Charlemagne’s dual authority as emperor and protector of Christianity. What are the name and location of these buildings? a. Palatine chapel, Germany b. Dome of the rock, Jerusalem c. Great mosque of cordoba, spain What is the date (period name) and style of these buildings? a. 792-805 CE, Carolingian b. Completed in 691 CE, Islamic (Umayyad) c. 8th-10th century, Islamic What were/is the function of these buildings? a. Originally built as a palace chapel for Charlemagne, it served as a religious space, later becoming the core of Aachen Cathedral. It also housed Charlemagne's throne and relics. b. Built as an Islamic shrine, it marks the spot traditionally associated with Muhammad’s Night Journey and the rock connected to the Abrahamic tradition. c. Originally built as a mosque, later converted into a Catholic cathedral in 1236 CE. How do the following terms apply to these buildings: Central plan: Palatine chapel, Dome of the rock Hypostyle plan: Great mosque of cordoba Rounded arch: Palatine chapel, Dome of the rock Horseshoe arch: Great mosque of cordoba Polychrome voussoir: Great mosque of cordoba What are the name and location of this building? - St. Michael’s at Hildesham, germany What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1010-1033, Early romanesque architecture What was/is the function of this building? - A Benedictine monastery church, used for worship and as a religious community space. Who commissioned this building and what was its intended purpose? - Commissioned By: Bishop Bernward of Hildesheim. - Intended Purpose: To serve as a monastic church and to emphasize Bernward’s devotion to Christian teachings and his authority as a patron of the arts. What is the material from which the doors (shown in the slide) are made? - The doors are made of cast bronze. They are the famous "Bernward Doors," known for their intricate reliefs. Recalling what we have learned in the section of ARCH 249 about Roman architecture in Spain, what Roman influence can you detect in this building’s decorative program? - The narrative relief sculptures on the Bernward Doors recall Roman triumphal reliefs and storytelling traditions. - The rounded arches in the architecture are a hallmark of Roman design. Recalling what we have learned in the section of ARCH 249 about early Islamic architecture in Spain, what Islamic influence can you detect in this building’s decorative program? - The alternating voussoirs in arches could be linked to polychrome techniques seen in Islamic architecture, like in the Great Mosque of Córdoba. - The intricate geometric patterns in minor decorative details also show Islamic influence. How do the following terms apply to this site and monument? Explain. Point out. Double transept: St. Michael’s features two transepts (one at each end), creating a cross-shaped layout. This enhances the church’s symmetry and grandeur Crypt: The crypt is an underground chapel beneath the choir, used for relics and burials, a common Romanesque feature. Basilica plan: The church follows a basilica plan, with a central nave, side aisles, and an apse. Old Testament/New Testament: The Bernward Doors juxtapose scenes from the Old Testament (left) with corresponding ones from the New Testament (right) to highlight typology—how events in the Old Testament prefigure Christ’s life. Juxtaposition: Juxtaposition is evident in the comparison of sin and redemption, law and grace, as seen on the Bernward Doors. Polychrome voussoirs: While subtle, alternating tones in some arches hint at polychrome voussoir techniques, inspired by Islamic and Roman precedents Wooden, painted ceiling: The ceiling at St. Michael’s features a flat wooden roof with painted geometric and biblical scenes, characteristic of Romanesque decoration. Truss: The wooden ceiling is supported by timber trusses, a structural feature distinct from vaulted ceilings. Rounded arch Arcade Alternate support system: The nave’s arcade employs an alternate support system, alternating between piers and columns, a hallmark of Romanesque churches. What are the name and location of this building? - Speyer Cathedral, Germany What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1030 CE and continued through the 12th century, Romanesque What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Rounded arches in windows, doorways, and arcades. - Thick walls and massive stone construction. - Groin vaults in the nave, replacing earlier flat ceilings, to allow for larger, higher spaces. - Lombard bands, decorative arcades running along exterior walls What was/is the function of this building? - Original Function: Built as a cathedral and burial site for Holy Roman Emperors. - Current Function: Continues to serve as a cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Groin vault (cross vault): Found in the nave, the groin vaults are intersections of two barrel vaults. They help distribute weight more efficiently and allow for larger windows in the clerestory. Arcade: Arcades are seen in the nave, with rows of arches supported by columns or piers. They separate the nave from the aisles. Clerestory: The clerestory is the upper level of the nave walls, featuring large windows that allow light into the central space. Transverse arch: Transverse arches run across the nave, dividing it into bays and adding structural strength to the vaults. Truss: Early parts of the building may have featured timber trusses for the roof, though later sections adopted stone vaulting. Westwork: western façade symbolizing imperial power. Nave: located at the west end of the cathedral. Aisle Transept Narthex Choir What are the name and location of this building? - San Miniato Al Monte, Florence, Italy What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1062-1090, Romanesque What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Rounded arches throughout the interior and exterior. - Thick stone walls and small windows typical of Romanesque solidity. - Polychrome revetment: White and green marble panels on the façade, arranged in geometric patterns. - Arcades in the nave and choir, creating rhythm and order. - Compound piers supporting the arcades, which add structural strength and visual complexity What was/is the function of this building? - Original Function: A Benedictine abbey church dedicated to Saint Minias (San Miniato), a Christian martyr. - Current Function: A functioning church and a popular pilgrimage and tourist site in Florence. Arcade Truss: The roof structure is supported by wooden trusses, visible in the open timbered ceiling of the nave. Trompe l’oeil: creating the illusion of depth and intricacy. Polychrome revetment: green (serpentine) and white marble in geometric patterns, a distinctive feature of Tuscan Romanesque architecture. Nave: wide and tall Aisle Choir Mosaic Compound pier Transverse arch: straighten the roof Diaphragm arch: These arches help divide the space into distinct sections and reinforce the ceiling. What are the name and location of this building? - Sant’ Ambrogio, Milan, Italy What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1080-1140, Romanesque What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Rounded arches throughout the structure, in arcades, windows, and vaulting. - Groin vaults (cross vaults) used in the nave, characteristic of advanced Romanesque engineering. - Lombard bands along the exterior walls, consisting of decorative blind arcades. - Thick walls and small windows, creating a sense of solidity and massiveness. - Compound piers and transverse arches that divide the interior into bays, creating rhythmic order. What was/is the function of this building? - Original Function: Built as a basilica dedicated to Saint Ambrose, the patron saint of Milan. It was a major pilgrimage site and served as the center of worship and community activities. - Current Function: A functioning church and a historical landmark. Groin-vault (cross vault) Arcade Transverse arch Nave Aisle Choir Narthex: two-story narthex with arches Gallery Mosaic Rib Lombard band Compound pier What are the name and location of this building? - St. Sernin, Toulouse, France What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1080-1120, Romanesque What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Barrel vaults in the nave, supported by transverse arches, a hallmark of Romanesque engineering. - Thick stone walls and small windows for structural stability. - Rounded arches in arcades, windows, and vaulting. - Radiating chapels around the apse, designed to accommodate pilgrims. - Massive proportions and a cruciform floor plan, emphasizing solidity and grandeur. What was/is the function of this building? - Original Function: Built as a pilgrimage church to honor Saint Sernin (Saturninus), the first bishop of Toulouse, and to house his relics. - Current Function: A functioning church and an important historical and architectural landmark. Arcade Transept Transverse arch Barrel vault Nave Aisle Choir Narthex Gallery Radiating chapels Pilgrimage church Rose window What are the name and location of this building? - St. Foy, Conques, France What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1050-1130, Romanesque What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Rounded arches throughout, including in windows, arcades, and vaulting. - Thick stone walls with small windows for structural stability. - Barrel vaulting in the nave, supported by transverse arches. - Radiating chapels extending from the apse to accommodate pilgrims. - Sculptural decoration on the portal, particularly the Last Judgment tympanum. - Massive proportions and a cruciform floor plan, emphasizing durability and symbolic order. What was/is the function of this building? - Original Function: Built as a pilgrimage church to honor Saint Foy, a young Christian martyr, and to house her relics, attracting pilgrims as part of the route to Santiago de Compostela. - Current Function: A functioning church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving its historical and artistic legacy. Arcade Transept Nave Aisle Choir Narthex Gallery Radiating chapels Pilgrimage church Portal Tympanum Last Judgment colonnette Archivolt Reliquary What are the name and location of this building? - Cathedral of Saint-Lazare, Autun, France What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1120-1135/40, Romanesque What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Rounded arches in arcades, windows, and vaulting, characteristic of Romanesque solidity. - Thick stone walls with relatively small windows to support the structure. - Barrel vaulting in the nave, reinforced with transverse arches. - Decorative sculptural elements such as the intricate tympanum and historiated capitals. - Vertical articulation using colonettes, jambs, and pilasters to divide and enhance the space. What was/is the function of this building? - Original Function: Built to honor Saint Lazarus (Lazare) and to house his relics, serving as a pilgrimage site. - Current Function: A functioning cathedral and a UNESCO-recognized site for its architectural and artistic significance. Transept Nave Aisle Choir Narthex Pilgrimage church Portal E) Tympanum Last Judgment C) Colonette A) Trumeau: The trumeau is the central post supporting the tympanum, often carved with biblical or symbolic figures; in Saint-Lazare, it features detailed sculpture. Jamb: The jambs flanking the portal are decorated with sculptural elements, enhancing the verticality of the façade. F) Archivolt: The archivolts are the concentric decorative bands surrounding the tympanum, filled with intricate carvings of angels, saints, and decorative motifs. B) pilaster Historiated capital: sculptural narratives from biblical stories, serving both decorative and didactic purposes. Gislebertus: The master sculptor Gislebertus is credited with the remarkable carvings, including the tympanum and historiated capitals, showcasing his innovative and emotive style. Cluny/Cluniac What are the name and location of this building? - Church of Ste, Madeline, Vezelay, France What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1102-1138, romanesque What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Barrel vaulting in the nave and groin vaulting in the aisles. - Use of polychrome voussoirs in the arches, adding visual rhythm and color contrast. - Rounded arches in arcades and windows, characteristic of Romanesque solidity. - Intricate sculptural decoration in the portal and capitals. - Massive walls with small windows, emphasizing structural stability. What was/is the function of this building? - Original Function: A major pilgrimage church associated with the cult of Mary Magdalene, whose relics were believed to be housed here. It served as a spiritual and physical stop on the route to Santiago de Compostela. - Current Function: A preserved heritage site, still used for religious ceremonies and attracting visitors for its historical and artistic significance. How do the following terms apply to this site and monument? Explain. Point out. Nave Aisle Transverse arch Polychrome voussoirs Groin vault (cross vault) Pilgrimage church Portal: richly decorated with sculptural elements, including the famous tympanum depicting the Mission of the Apostles, symbolizing the church's role in spreading Christianity. Trumeau: The trumeau, the central pillar supporting the portal's tympanum, features intricate carvings, often depicting biblical or symbolic figures. Historiated capital: the interior columns narrate biblical stories and moral lessons, combining functionality and didactic artistry. Mystic Mill: a famous historiated capital in the nave, symbolizes the Old Testament being transformed into the New Testament, showing Moses and Paul engaged in this mystical act. Santiago de Compostela: The church was a crucial stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, highlighting its role in medieval pilgrimage culture and its architectural design catering to this purpose. What are the name and location of this building complex? - Cistercian Abbey at Fontenay What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1139-1147 Romanesque/Cistercian What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Plain and unadorned architecture, reflecting the Cistercian focus on simplicity and spirituality. - Rounded arches in windows, arcades, and vaulting, typical of Romanesque style. - Lack of elaborate decoration, in contrast to the ornamentation seen in Cluniac or other Romanesque churches. - Transverse arches and ribbed vaulting, emphasizing modular construction and order. - Modular design, where repeated geometric units define the church's layout. - Basilica plan with a rectangular nave and aisles, creating a clear, functional layout What was/is the function of this building? - Original Function: A monastery for the Cistercian order, designed for prayer, labor, and self-sufficiency. How was this church originally decorated, and how does this relate to its purpose? - The church was originally plainly decorated to reflect the Cistercian emphasis on humility and avoidance of excess. - Walls were typically unpainted or minimally adorned, with no elaborate sculpture or stained glass. This simplicity emphasized the spiritual focus of the order, as advocated by Bernard of Clairvaux, rejecting worldly distractions in religious spaces Bernard of Clairvaux: A key figure in the Cistercian reform, Bernard emphasized simplicity, austerity, and a return to the Benedictine rule. His influence is evident in the abbey's unornamented design and focus on functionality. Aisle Nave Transverse arch Modular design Cistercian Cloister: a square courtyard surrounded by covered walkways, served as a meditative and communal space for the monks. Refectory: The refectory was the dining hall where monks ate in silence, reflecting their communal life and spiritual discipline. Dormitory Workrooms Basilica plan church Compare and contrast What are the names and locations of these buildings? a. St. Foy, Conques, France b. Cistercian Abbey at Fontenay, Burgundy, France What is the date (period name) and style of these buildings? a. 1120-1135/40, Romanesque b. 1139-1147 Romanesque/Cistercian Aspect St. Foy, Conques Cistercian Abbey at Fontenay Purpose Pilgrimage church, focusing on public Monastic complex, focusing on prayer, worship and relic veneration. work, and simplicity. Decoration Richly adorned with sculptural and Unadorned, reflecting a minimalist narrative elements. approach. Audience Intended to inspire awe and educate Intended to serve monks in a lay pilgrims. disciplined, contemplative environment. Philosophy Focus on storytelling, sensory Focus on humility, austerity, and spiritual experience, and glorification of God. clarity. Architectural Radiating chapels, polychrome Modular design, plain stone walls, and Features voussoirs, and richly decorated portal. practical spaces for monastic life. What are the name and location of this building? - Durham Cathedral, England What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1093-1133 CE Anglo-Romanesque What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? a. Aisle b. Cylindrical columns w/ chevron design c. Compound piers (distribute weight) d. e. Ribbed vaults/pointed arches f. Quadrant vaults What was the original function of this building? - Built as a cathedral to house the shrine of St. Cuthbert and serve as a center for Christian worship. It also functioned as a Benedictine monastery until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century. How do the following terms apply to this site and monument? Explain. Point out. Nave Aisle Arcade Gallery Compound pier column Chevron Groin vault Ribbed vault Quadrant vault/buttress Pointed arch What are the name and location of this building? - Abbey Church of St. Denis, Paris, France What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1137-1140+, Early gothic What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Ribbed Vaults: Visible in the ceiling, these provide structural support while creating a sense of elegance and height. - Pointed Arches: A defining feature of Gothic style, seen in the arcade and windows, allowing for greater height and less lateral pressure. - Stained Glass Windows: Vibrant and intricate, they depict religious scenes while filling the interior with multicolored light, embodying Abbot Suger's vision of "Lux Nova." - Clerestory Windows: Located high above the nave, they let in abundant natural light, emphasizing the verticality and divine atmosphere. - Radiating Chapels: Integrated into the ambulatory, these create a harmonious layout while allowing pilgrims access to relics. - Flying Buttresses (though not directly visible in the interior slide): They counteract the thrust from the high ceilings and walls, enabling the inclusion of larger windows. - Tall, Vertical Orientation: Seen in the elongated columns and overall design, drawing the eye upward to symbolize the heavenly realm Why was this church built on this specific location? - The site is associated with St. Denis, a patron saint of France and the first bishop of Paris, martyred around the 3rd century. It became a burial site for French kings, cementing its importance. Who is the person responsible for its construction and which buildings inspired him? - Abbot Suger (1081–1151), the influential abbot of St. Denis, spearheaded the church's transformation. - Suger was inspired by Romanesque churches and Byzantine influences (light and mosaics), aiming to create a structure reflecting divine luminosity. He also incorporated ideas from pilgrimage churches like Santiago de Compostela and Romanesque engineering techniques. How does the choir and ambulatory of this building, visible in the slide, illustrate both important developments in architecture structural and the patron’s principal aesthetic desire for the overall appearance and effect of this monument? - Ribbed vaults and pointed arches: Allowed for higher ceilings and lighter structures. - Stained glass windows: Suger emphasized "Lux Nova" ("new light") to create a heavenly, luminous interior. The rose window is a prominent feature. - Radiating chapels: Harmoniously integrated into the ambulatory, allowing for the display of relics and an uninterrupted flow of light. - The design aimed to evoke the divine, with an emphasis on height, light, and spiritual transcendence Nave Aisle Arcade Gallery Clerestory Groin vault: allow for larger windows Ribbed vault Pointed arch Stained glass windows Lux nova: Suger’s concept of Lux Nova ("new light") underpins the aesthetic, aiming to create a divine experience through the interplay of light and color. Webbing Radiating chapel Compare and contrast What are the names and locations of these buildings? A. Cathedral of Saint-Lazare, Autun, France B. Cathedral of Notre Dame, Paris, France What is the date (period name) and styles of these building? A. 1120-1135/40, Romanesque B. 1163-1250, Gothic What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? What are the main differences in these styles? Structural: ○ Romanesque buildings (Saint-Lazare) are heavier, with rounded arches and barrel vaults. ○ Gothic buildings (Notre Dame) are lighter, taller, and feature pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. Decorative: ○ Romanesque art focuses on dramatic sculptural reliefs, such as the tympanum at Saint-Lazare, often conveying religious themes in a direct, didactic way. ○ Gothic decoration emphasizes stained glass windows and delicate stone tracery, creating a sense of divine beauty and mystery. Atmosphere: ○ Romanesque interiors are darker and more solemn due to smaller windows. ○ Gothic interiors are bright, colorful, and uplifting, filled with "Lux Nova" (new light). Rose window Portal Rounded arch Pointed arch Trumeau Gallery Towers Westwork Tympanum Jamb What are the name and location of this building? - Cathedral of Notre Dame, Paris, France What is the date (period name) and style of this building? - 1163-1250, Gothic What design elements visible in this slide are characteristic of this style of architecture? - Pointed Arches: Used in arcades, windows, and vaults, directing weight downward and allowing greater height. - Flying Buttresses: External supports that transfer the weight of the vaults outward, enabling thinner walls and larger windows. - Stained Glass Windows: Especially the rose windows, which create vibrant, colorful light effects. - Ribbed Vaults: Structural innovation distributing weight and allowing taller, lighter interiors. - Verticality and Light: The design draws the eye upward, symbolizing divine transcendence. Who was the person who commissioned this building and when? - Bishop maurice de Sully What was/is the function of this building? - Cathedral, Christian place of worship, education, community gathering, symbolic representation of unity Nave Aisle Arcade Gallery Transept Clerestory Groin vault Ribbed vault Pointed arch Flying buttress King and Queens of the Old Testament Triple doorway Tympanum Trumeau Rose window Westwork Identify: Name of site, location? - Watson Brake, Louisiana, 3500 BCE (Archaic Period) What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - (Archaic Period) What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Packed cay and soil What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Advanced levels of societal organization - some level of hierarchical or cooperative social structure. What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Mound Configuration: The site consists of 11 mounds connected by ridges, arranged in an oval shape, covering approximately 20 acres. These features predate other mound-building cultures in North America, such as Poverty Point and the Adena and Hopewell cultures. - Purpose: The function of the site remains unclear, but it is hypothesized to have been used for ceremonial or communal purposes, reflecting a spiritual or social gathering place. - Watson Brake reflects an earlier stage of organized construction without reliance on agriculture. - Watson Brake lacks stone and permanent architectural features, highlighting environmental adaptations to the resources available in Eastern North America. What are some of the environmental factors that influenced the forms of architecture in Eastern North America and Southwest North America? - The Eastern region’s abundance of clay and soil influenced the use of earthworks rather than stone. - Southwest’s arid conditions required reliance on stone and adobe for structures Why are the earthen mounds at Watson Brake and Poverty Point in Louisiana so important for the history of architecture in the Americas? - Earliest monumental constructions in north america - Suggest that social complexity emerged in diverse environmental and cultural contexts Identify: Name of site, location? - Poverty Point, Louisiana, 1700-1100 BCE What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Archaic period What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Clay and soil - Stone and minerals were brought in What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Hunter-gatherers - Social organization What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Concentric Ridged Earthworks: Six semi-elliptical ridges form the core of the site, arranged around a central plaza. These ridges were used as living and working areas. - Large Mounds: The most notable is Mound A, a large platform mound 72 feet tall, built in a short time frame (possibly within 30–90 days). This suggests efficient construction techniques and labor organization. - Trade Networks: Artifacts made from materials like copper, soapstone, and flint, which originated from distant regions, indicate Poverty Point's role as a trade hub. - Compared to Watson Brake (3500 BCE), Poverty Point is more complex, with defined trade networks and monumental architecture on a larger scale. - Unlike Watson Brake, Poverty Point served as a major regional center, not just a ceremonial site. What are some of the environmental factors that influenced the forms of architecture in Eastern North America and Southwest North America? - The Eastern region’s abundance of clay and soil influenced the use of earthworks rather than stone. - Southwest’s arid conditions required reliance on stone and adobe for structures Why are the earthen mounds at Watson Brake and Poverty Point in Louisiana so important for the history of architecture in the Americas? - Early example of monumental architecture What does this monument tell us about the people who created it, and why was this so surprising to archaeologists? - The site demonstrates that large, organized societies could exist before the advent of agriculture in North America. Identify: Name of site, location? - Serpent Mound, Adams county, Ohio, What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Adena Culture (300 BCE) - Or Fort Ancient Culture (1000 BCE) What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Clay, Soil, Stone, ash What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - It reveals their capacity for large-scale, coordinated construction projects and their deep spiritual or cosmological beliefs. The monument has been designed in the shape of an animal. What terms best describes this type of design? - an effigy mound, a structure shaped to resemble an animal or other symbolic figure. The serpent form is thought to hold significant spiritual or astronomical meaning. What was the mostly likely reason for the construction of this monument in this shape? - The serpent shape may represent spiritual beliefs tied to rebirth, fertility, or the cosmos. Snakes were often seen as powerful symbols in indigenous cultures. - Its alignment suggests an astronomical purpose, potentially marking solstices, lunar events, or other celestial phenomena. How does this monument reflect the “fundamental architectural idea” of orientation? - The head of the serpent is aligned with the setting sun on the summer solstice. - Other parts of the serpent may correspond to lunar phases or other celestial alignments. - This orientation suggests that the builders used the monument to track time, seasons, or significant spiritual events. Archeoastronomy: Refers to the study of how ancient cultures understood and used celestial phenomena in their architecture and monuments. Effigy mound Identify: Name of site, location? - Cahokia, Illinois What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Mississippian Culture, 1000 CE What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Soil and clay for large earth mounds - Wooden structures What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Urban Planning: Cahokia’s layout shows advanced urban design, including plazas, residential areas, and defensive palisades. - Hierarchical Society: The size and scale of Monks Mound and the surrounding structures suggest a highly stratified society, with an elite class controlling resources and labor. - Cultural Sophistication: The site reflects a thriving trade network, as artifacts from across North America (e.g., shells, copper, mica) have been found there. What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Monks Mound: The largest earthen mound in the Americas, likely served as the base for a temple or leader’s residence. - Central Plaza: A massive open area used for ceremonies, gatherings, and games such as Chunkey. - Woodhenge: A circular arrangement of timber posts used as a calendar to track solstices and equinoxes, reflecting knowledge of astronomy. Identify: Name of site, location? - Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde, Colorado What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Ancestral Pueblo vulture, 1000-1300 CE What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Cliff Dwellings: Built within a natural alcove for protection against weather and potential invaders. - Multi-story buildings: Composed of stone, timber, and mortar, featuring residential and ceremonial spaces. - Circular Kivas: Underground ceremonial structures distinct to Ancestral Pueblo culture. What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Sandstone blocks: Quarried and shaped for walls. - Mortar: Made from mud to bind stones together. - Timber: Used for roofing and structural support. What is the name and function of the circular structure visible in the slide? - Kiva, used for ceremonial purposes - The sipapu, a small hole in the kiva floor, symbolized the mythical place of emergence where the ancestors entered this world. What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Reflects a society deeply connected to the land, both for sustenance and spiritual beliefs. - The construction and maintenance of Cliff Palace required advanced knowledge of engineering and community organization. - The emphasis on kivas underscores the importance of spirituality in their daily lives. Identify: Name of site, location? - Pueblo Bonito, New Mexico What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Ancestral Pueblo Culture, 1000 CE What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Sandstone blocks: Carefully shaped for walls. - Adobe mortar: Made from clay, sand, and water, used to bind stones together. - Timber: Used for roofing and structural supports, often transported over great distances due to local scarcity. What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Served as a ceremonial, administrative, and residential hub for the Chacoan culture. - The scale and complexity indicate advanced societal organization, including trade networks and communal effort. What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - D-Shaped Layout: - Unique layout with more than 600 rooms, reflecting careful planning. - Kivas: - Circular ceremonial structures, including several great kivas, emphasizing the spiritual and communal life of the Ancestral Puebloans. - Scale: - Largest structure in North America until the 19th century, rivaling the scale of Mesoamerican cities but distinct in material and purpose. - Masonry Techniques: - Remarkably advanced, with intricate stonework demonstrating engineering skill - Like Mesoamerican cities, Pueblo Bonito demonstrates urban planning and alignment with astronomical phenomena. However, it lacks monumental pyramids, instead emphasizing communal spaces like kivas. Identify: Name of site, location? - La Venta, Mexico - Great Pyramid & Bal Court - Colossal Heads What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Olmec CUlture, 900-400 BCE What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Basalt: Used for the colossal heads; transported over long distances from volcanic regions. - Clay and Earth: Primary materials for the pyramid and platforms. - Jade and Obsidian: Used in small sculptures, ceremonial items, and tools. What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Religious and Political Centrality: La Venta was a ceremonial center, reflecting the Olmec's theocratic society. - Artistic and Architectural Sophistication: The precision of the colossal heads and the scale of the pyramid underscore their advanced engineering and cultural priorities. - Hierarchical Society: The resources required for construction indicate a highly organized society capable of mobilizing labor and material. What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Colossal Heads: Unique to the Olmec; no other Mesoamerican culture produced such monumental portraiture during this era. - Pyramid Construction: Predates later Mesoamerican pyramids, influencing subsequent cultures like the Maya and Aztec. - Symbolism and Orientation: Alignments suggest astronomical awareness and a deep connection to cosmology. - North America: Earthworks like the mounds at Poverty Point (Louisiana) are comparable in terms of monumental construction but lack the sculptural detail seen at La Venta. - Contemporary Mesoamerica: Early Zapotec sites share ceremonial elements but did not emphasize portraiture like the Olmec heads. Identify: Name of site, location? Name of the specific monument depicted? - Teotihuacan- Pyramid of the moon, Mexico What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Teotihuacan culture, 200 BCE- 900 CE What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Volcanic Stone: Locally sourced, used in the pyramid's construction. - Adobe and Lime Plaster: For finishing surfaces and detailing. - Obsidian: Used for tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects. What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Religious and Ritual Use: The Pyramid of the Moon was a ceremonial center tied to rituals honoring the Moon Goddess and possibly associated deities. - Hierarchy and Power: Its size and prominence in the site signify a stratified society capable of large-scale construction. - Astronomical Alignments: The pyramid aligns with Cerro Gordo mountain, symbolizing sacred geography and cosmology. What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Stepped Pyramid Design: - A tiered structure similar to other Mesoamerican pyramids but distinct in its integration with Teotihuacan's urban grid. - Orthogonal Layout: - Part of Teotihuacan’s organized urban plan, with the pyramid aligned along the Avenue of the Dead. - Central Plaza: - The plaza in front served as a gathering place for ceremonies and displays of power. Earlier Structures: Echoes the style of Olmec pyramids but with greater scale and complexity. Contemporary Sites: Influenced later Maya and Aztec pyramids but lacked their elaborate inscriptions. How do the following terms apply to this site and monument. Explain Mimetic architecture: The Pyramid of the Moon mirrors the surrounding Cerro Gordo mountain, embodying sacred mimicry of natural forms. Orthogonal planning: grid system Adosada: platform used for rituals Plaza Stepped pyramid Human sacrifice Temple Identify: Name of site, location? Name of the specific monument depicted? - Pyramid of the sun What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Teotihuacan What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Volcanic Rock: Primary material for the pyramid's core. - Adobe and Rubble Fill: Used within the pyramid’s structure for stability and volume. - Lime Plaster: Coated the exterior for a smooth and reflective surface. - Obsidian: Used in tools, rituals, and decorative elements. What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Religious and Astronomical Role: Likely dedicated to a solar deity, its alignment is significant in relation to the sun’s movements, particularly during solstices. - Centrality in Teotihuacan: As the largest structure on-site, it highlights the city’s role as a major ceremonial and political hub. - Scale and Labor: The pyramid’s massive scale underscores the societal organization and capability for mobilizing a large workforce. - Ritual Importance: Caves and tunnels beneath the pyramid suggest connections to underworld and creation myths. What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Size: One of the largest pyramids in the Americas, standing about 65 meters tall and covering a base of 225 meters. - Stepped Pyramid Design: Its terraced levels reflect a Mesoamerican architectural style, with strong symbolic significance representing a sacred mountain. - Orientation: Aligned with celestial events, such as the sunset on certain days of the year, showcasing advanced knowledge of astronomy. - Plaza and Urban Integration: The pyramid is connected to the Avenue of the Dead and the broader grid of Teotihuacan, demonstrating sophisticated urban planning. Identify: Name of site, location? Name of the specific monument depicted? - Temple of the feathered serpent (Quetzalcoatl) What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Teotihuacan What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Volcanic Stone: Formed the primary structure of the temple. - Stucco and Paint: Used to coat and decorate surfaces with vibrant colors. - Obsidian and Shell: Incorporated into ritual objects and for decoration. - Adobe Fill: Used internally to stabilize the structure. What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Religious Importance: Dedicated to Quetzalcoatl (the Feathered Serpent) and Tlaloc (the Storm God), reflecting the duality of life-giving rain and cosmic order. - Socio-Political Symbolism: Served as a central ceremonial structure, demonstrating the Teotihuacan rulers' connection to divine authority. - Sacrificial Evidence: Mass burials of individuals, likely sacrificial victims, underline its role in large-scale state rituals. What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Talud-Tablero Design: Characteristic of Teotihuacan architecture, where sloping panels (taluds) alternate with rectangular framed panels (tableros). - Ornamentation: Sculpted representations of Feathered Serpents and Tlaloc heads decorate the facade, an early and intricate use of symbolic decoration. - Tunnel and Cave System: A tunnel beneath the temple likely represented the underworld, playing a role in rituals and cosmology. - Central Location: Positioned within the Ciudadela, highlighting its importance in both religious and administrative activities. Identify: Name of site, location? Name of the specific monument depicted? - Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar, Tikal, Guatemala What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Maya Culature, 732 CE What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Limestone: The primary material used, sourced locally from nearby quarries. - Stucco: Used to coat and decorate surfaces with painted motifs and patterns. - Wood: Employed for beams and lintels, often intricately carved. What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Funerary Purpose: Served as the tomb of Jasaw Chan K’awiil I, a prominent Tikal ruler, emphasizing the Maya tradition of associating kings with sacred architecture. - Religious Function: A temple for rituals and ceremonies dedicated to deities and honoring the ruler's divine status. - Political Power: Its imposing size and central location reinforced the power and influence of Tikal as a city-state. What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Stepped Pyramid: Temple I is a nine-level stepped structure, symbolizing the layers of the underworld in Maya cosmology. - Roof-Comb: The structure atop the temple added height and grandeur, often decorated with carved imagery of the king and deities. - Plaza Orientation: Positioned in Tikal’s Great Plaza, the temple’s alignment emphasized its integration into ceremonial and political life. Talud-tablero Temple Roof-comb Plaza Identify: Name of site, location? Name of the specific monument depicted? - Palenque Mexico - Temple of the inscriptions - House of the Nine sharpened spears What is the name of the ancient cultural group who created this monument? - Maya Culture, 250-950 CE What materials were used in the construction of this site? - Limestone: The primary material, locally quarried and shaped for construction. - Stucco: Used for coating surfaces and creating intricate decorative elements. - Carved Stone: For inscriptions and sculptural elements, detailing Maya history and cosmology. What does this monument tell us about the people who created it? - Built as the tomb of Pakal the Great, emphasizing the Maya belief in the divine status of rulers and their connection to the afterlife. What are the distinctive elements of this site and how do they compare to other earlier or contemporary aspects of the built environment of North America and Mesoamerica? - Pyramid Structure with Temple: A multi-tiered pyramid capped by a temple housing inscriptions and ritual spaces. - Roof-Comb: A decorative roof-comb that added vertical prominence and served as a platform for symbolic and artistic representations. - Inscriptions: Extensive hieroglyphic panels that chronicle significant events and myths, showcasing the Maya's intellectual and artistic achievements. - Funerary Crypt: A hidden tomb beneath the pyramid contains Pakal’s sarcophagus with a richly carved lid depicting his journey to the afterlife. Identify the monument (name, location) in the slide. - El Caracol (the snail), Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico Which ancient culture (group of people) constructed and used this monument? - Itza Culture, 9th-13th century How does the design of this monument symbolically incorporate specific cosmological beliefs in its design? For example, Special orientation? Explain and point out specific elements. - Astronomical Alignment: - The structure’s windows and doorways align with significant astronomical events, such as solstices, equinoxes, and the positions of Venus, which was highly significant in Maya cosmology. - Venus was associated with warfare and divine cycles, and its observations helped regulate rituals and agricultural cycles. - Circular Form: - Unlike the typical rectangular Maya structures, the circular design of El Caracol reflects its unique function as an observatory, symbolizing celestial movements and cycles. - Elevated Platform: - The observatory is built on a stepped platform, representing the Maya belief in a layered cosmos, with the observatory as a link between the earth and the heavens. - Internal Spiral Staircase: - The spiral staircase within the tower, resembling a snail’s shell, symbolizes cyclical time—a core concept in Maya cosmology. - Orientation to the Cosmos: - The structure’s alignment with the cardinal directions and key celestial events demonstrates its purpose as a tool for tracking and understanding the movements of the heavens, reinforcing the Maya worldview that earthly and cosmic events were interconnected. Identify the monument (name, location) in the slide. - Pyramid (el castillo), Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico Which ancient culture (group of people) constructed and used this monument? - Itza Culture, 9th-13th century How does the design of this monument symbolically incorporate specific cosmological beliefs in its design? For example, are there any special or symbolic numbers reflected in the design? Special orientation? Explain and point out specific elements. - Numerical Symbolism: - The pyramid features 365 steps (91 steps on each of the four sides, plus the platform), representing the days of the solar year. This reflects the Maya's advanced understanding of astronomy and their calendar system. - The structure incorporates the Mesoamerican Long Count calendar and aligns with celestial cycles. - Equinox Shadow Effect: - During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the setting sun creates a shadow illusion of a serpent slithering down the pyramid’s staircase. This represents Kukulkan, the feathered serpent deity, symbolizing the connection between the heavens and the earth. - Orientation: - The pyramid is oriented with precision to the cardinal directions, aligning with solar and celestial events significant in Maya cosmology. This monument rises vertically in a system of “sloping planes” and horizontal “friezes”. What are these design elements called? - Talud tublero Talud-tablero Temple Cenote: sacred sinkhole Feathered serpent