German Architecture - Romanesque

Romanesque

Main article: Romanesque architecture See also: List of regional characteristics of Romanesque churches

The Romanesque period, from the 10th to the early 13th century, is characterised by semi-circular arches, robust appearance, small paired windows, and groin vaults. Many churches in Germany date from this time, including the twelve Romanesque churches of Cologne. The most significant building of this period in Germany is Speyer Cathedral. It was built in stages from about 1030, and was in the 11th century the largest building in the Christian world and an architectural symbol of the power of the Salian dynasty, a dynasty of four German Kings (1024–1125).

The cathedrals of Worms and Mainz are other important examples of Romanesque style. Many churches and monasteries were founded in this era, particularly in Saxony-Anhalt. The Rhenish Romanesque, for example at Limburg Cathedral, produced works that used coloured surrounds. Of particular importance are also the church of St. Servatius in Quedlinburg, and also Luebeck Cathedral, Brunswick Cathedral, Trier Cathedral and Bamberg Cathedral, whose last phase of construction falls in the Gothic period.

Maulbronn Abbey is considered a significant example of Cistercian architecture. It was built between the 12th and 15 Century, and therefore includes Gothic elements. In the 11th Century there also began construction of numerous castles, including the famous castle of Wartburg, which was later expanded in the Gothic style.