2. Carolingian and Ottonian Architecture

3. 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.

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

5. 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.

6. Charlemagne’s Palace Complex

7. 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.

8. Charlemagne’s 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.

9. The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel

12. Bronze Doors Aachen

13. The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel

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

16. The Carolingian Renaissance The Palatine Chapel Charlemagne’s Throne

17. The Carolingian Renaissance Lorsch Gatehouse

18. Carolingian Architecture Lorsch Gatehouse

19. Germigny-des-Pres Built for the Bishop of Orleans

20. Germigny-des-PrÉs Built for the Bishop of Orleans

22. Corvey Church, Germany

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

24. Ottonian Architecture

25. 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.

26. Ottonian Architecture St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033

27. Apse Aisle Nave Transepts

28. Ottonian Architecture St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033

30. Ceiling

31. Ottonian Architecture St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033 Nave Capital

32. Ottonian Architecture St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033 Transepts

33. Ottonian Architecture St. Michael Hildesheim 1010-1033 Details of Bronze Doors Doors

34. Finis