Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Romanesque refers to an architectural style prevalent in Europe from the 11th to the 12th century. It is characterized by thick walls, rounded arches, and small windows, often found in churches and castles.
The tympanum refers to the semi-circular space above a doorway in Romanesque architecture. It was often decorated with intricate sculptures or reliefs depicting biblical scenes.