9.1 Carolingian Architecture: Palaces and Churches

Carolingian architecture blended Roman and Byzantine styles, creating unique features like the westwork and cruciform plan. These churches showcased the empire's power and religious devotion, with thick walls, small windows, and vaulted ceilings.

Charlemagne's role was crucial, commissioning projects like Aachen's Palatine Chapel. This octagonal church combined religious and political functions, featuring a dome and classical elements that symbolized imperial aspirations and influenced later European architecture.

Carolingian Architectural Features and Influences

Key features of Carolingian architecture

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• Westwork formed monumental western facade often included twin towers (Corvey Abbey)
• Cruciform plan shaped like Latin cross with longer nave and shorter transept (Fulda Abbey)
• Alternating support system used columns and piers alternately for structural support
• Apse created semi-circular or polygonal eastern end housed altar and clergy
• Ambulatory provided covered walkway around apse facilitated movement of pilgrims
• Crypt built underground chamber beneath choir housed relics and tombs
• Thick walls ensured structural stability and defense
• Small windows limited natural light created intimate atmosphere
• Barrel vaults formed semi-circular arched ceilings spanning rectangular spaces
• Groin vaults created by intersecting barrel vaults at right angles covered square spaces

Roman and Byzantine architectural influences

• Roman influences:
  • Basilica plan adapted long rectangular hall for Christian worship
  • Round arches used for structural support and decoration
  • Classical columns incorporated for aesthetic and symbolic purposes
  • Clerestory windows added to upper walls brought light into nave
• Byzantine influences:
  • Centralized plan adopted in some churches emphasized central dome
  • Domes integrated to create impressive interior spaces
  • Mosaics used for elaborate wall and ceiling decorations
  • Interior decoration emphasized to create rich visual experience
• Synthesis of styles:
  • Longitudinal and central plans combined created unique spatial arrangements
  • Roman and Byzantine elements adapted to suit Carolingian religious and political needs

Charlemagne's role in architectural development

• Patronage of architectural projects commissioned numerous churches and palaces (Aachen Cathedral)
• Cultural revival encouraged study of classical texts and art led to architectural innovation
• Standardization efforts promoted uniformity in church design across empire
• Importation of craftsmen brought skilled workers from Italy and other regions enhanced building techniques
• Political symbolism used architecture to express imperial power and legitimacy linked to Roman tradition

Significance of Aachen's Palatine Chapel

• Purpose served as Charlemagne's private chapel and throne room combined religious and political functions
• Design:
  1. Octagonal central plan inspired by Roman mausoleums
  2. Two-story elevation created impressive interior space
  3. Dome over central space emphasized vertical axis
• Roman and Byzantine influences:
  • Inspired by San Vitale in Ravenna adopted centralized plan and dome
  • Incorporated classical columns and capitals referenced Roman imperial architecture
• Innovative features:
  • Westwork with twin towers became hallmark of Carolingian church design
  • Sophisticated vaulting system demonstrated advanced engineering skills
• Symbolic importance:
  • Represented Charlemagne's imperial aspirations linked Frankish rule to Roman legacy
  • Linked Carolingian rule to Roman imperial tradition legitimized Charlemagne's authority
• Influence on later architecture:
  • Served as model for other Carolingian and Ottonian churches (Ottmarsheim Abbey)
  • Inspired development of Romanesque architecture influenced European church design for centuries