Renaissance Photos Show info

The architecture of the Renaissance developed in the 15th and 16th centuries from Italy and spread from there in different forms throughout Europe. At the center of the phenomenon was the return to the harmony of antiquity as a contrast to the Gothic style, which was perceived as modern. In order to better classify the expressions and multifaceted variants, the period is divided into Early Renaissance (15th century), High Renaissance (up to about 1535) and Late Renaissance (from about 1535) including Mannerism. Here you will find many #renaissance pictures and compact answers to the ten most formerly asked questions.

1. What was actually revived in the Renaissance architecture?

2. What are typical features of Renaissance architecture?

3. What is the difference between the architectural styles Gothic and Renaissance?

4. Who are renowned architects during the Renaissance period?

During the Renaissance period there were many outstanding architects who designed or participated in the construction of world-famous buildings. The most important architects considering the origin in Italy include Filippo Brunelleschi (1377-1446), Donato Bramante (1444-1514), Leon Battista Alberti (1404-1472), Giovanni Antonio Amadeo (1447-1522) or Andrea Palladio (1508-1580).

5. What are the most beautiful renaissance buildings?

6. Which movements can be distinguished within the Renaissance?

Due to its great importance and wide spread, different European countries developed their own variations, each with some particularities and regional features. They were all influenced by the Renaissance in Italy, which is why the Italian Renaissance is considered the most important one. Other world-famous styles are the French Renaissance and the English Renaissance. In addition, there are other variants that are characteristic for individual regions within a country. Examples for this are the Weserrenaissance in Germany or the Flemish Renaissance in Belgium.

7. What are the characteristics of the early Renaissance?

8. How can the characteristics of the High Renaissance be described?

An exact classification of the individual epochs is not always obvious at a first glance. The early Renaissance was strongly influenced by the rediscovery of ancient Roman architecture. The High Renaissance, on the other hand, concentrated on perfection in the form of often more lavish plasticity and dynamism. Facades were more elaborately designed, ornamented with stucco decorations and articulated. One of the most famous examples of a villa from this era is the Villa Farnesina in Rome, designed by Baldassare Peruzzi.

Comparison of two Italian villas of the early and high renaissance period

Early Renaissance: Villa Medici

Photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra | wikipedia

High Renaissance: Villa Farnesina

Photo: Niccolo Rigacci | wikipedia

9. What characterizes the late renaissance?

10. What is the difference between renaissance and mannerism?

Mannerism followed the late Renaissance and is also often considered a transitional style between Renaissance and Baroque. In Italy, however, both terms also coexist, so that a clear demarcation is not automatically given. While Mannerism retains the stylistic characteristics of the Renaissance, these are occasionally interrupted by imaginative deviations from clear lines and rules. A typical feature is the broken pediment, which can be seen above entrance portals, for example. In addition, Mannerism is evident in an even greater emphasis on details and dramatized representations.