Christianity spread through pilgrimage routes and the Crusades. Romanesque Europe This period between 1050 and 1200 is defined by the continued growth and spread of Christianity and the prevalence of Roman Classical style. France, Spain, Italy, England, Normandy, and present- day Germany shared the desire to spread Christianity and bring people closer to God through art and architecture. Christianity spread through pilgrimage routes and the Crusades.

Sainte-Foy, Coques The key buildings from this time are monasteries, churches, and cathedrals. The Church of St. Foy reflects the changing needs of the Catholic pilgrim, with longer and wider naves and radiating chapels for the display of relics.

This devotional image, placed on the burial site of the child martyr St. Faith, is sumptuously decorated though the generous donations of pilgrims.

Barrel Vaults A key Romanesque feature found in many churches is the barrel vault. Rounded arches, tall pillars, and limited natural light, create a solid feel to these building.

St. Sernin, Toulousse This church is cruciform design in the shape of the cross, meant to recall Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross.

Art from this time was in the service of Christianity, created to communicate wordlessly to a largely illiterate population. This trend continues throughout the Middle Ages. Tymphanums, the spaces enclosed by a lintel and arch, were often decorated with complex devotional images to greet pilgrims throughout the Church.

The Bayeux Tapestry chronicles the formerly Viking Normans conquering England in 1066. It is unique in that it shows a contemporaneous historical, secular narrative.