Carolingian and Ottonian Architecture

Early Medieval to Carolingian Architecture

Early medieval architecture was characterized by plain exteriors. Entrances became increasingly impressive and elaborate in the Carolingian period and beyond. The elaborate entrances - westworks - set the tone for later Romanesque and Gothic facades.

Monasticism
In a dangerous age, even monks lived in fortified communities.

Monasticism
The abbey church and the cloisters were the centers of prayer. The work center of every monastery was the scriptoria, where manuscripts were written and copied.

Charlemagnes Palace Complex

The Palatine Chapel - Aachen

During his trip to Rome, where he was crowned Holy Roman Emperor, Charlemagne was impressed by the Byzantine church of San Vitale. He had his own version of it built in his capital.

Charlemagnes Palatine Chapel

This is the best preserved Carolingian building. It was designed by Otto of Metz, based on the octagonal plan of San Vitale. It is a much more vertical space, however.

The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel

The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel

The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel

The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel

Bronze Doors Aachen

The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel

The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel

The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel

Corinthian capitals are used on the columns. Supporting piers are of polished granite. Charlemagnes throne is in a gallery above the door and facing the alter.

The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel Charlemagnes Throne

The Carolingian Renaissance Lorsch Gatehouse

Carolingian Architecture Lorsch Gatehouse

Germigny-des-Prs Built for the Bishop of Orleans

Germigny-des-Prs Built for the Bishop of Orleans

Germigny-des-Prs Built for the Bishop of Orleans

Corvey Church, Germany

Corvey Church, Germany

Transepts
Note the addition of a north and south transept, creating the cruciform shape that was characteristic of later Latin churches.

Ottonian Architecture

St. Michael, Hildesheim

The church was designed by St. Bernward, the Bishop of Hildesheim. Interior space is divided up into chancels, transepts and apses, all based on equal squares. Towers also cover the crossings.

Ottonian Architecture
St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033

Ottonian Architecture
St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033
Transepts Aisle Apse Nave Aisle Transepts Apse

Ottonian Architecture
St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033

Ottonian Architecture
St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033

Ottonian Architecture
St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033

Ceiling

Ottonian Architecture
St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033

Nave Capital

Ottonian Architecture
St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033

Transepts

Ottonian Architecture
St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033

Details of Bronze Doors

Doors

Finis