Architectural Monuments – Historical Notes

Question-and-answer flashcards covering 19 key monuments, dynasties, and families from Early Christian through late Gothic architecture, as discussed in the lecture notes.

What is the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and why is it significant?

An Early Christian funerary building in Ravenna, Italy, famed for its 5th-century mosaics and cruciform layout.

Which late-5th-century baptistery in Ravenna contains Arian Christian mosaics of Christ’s baptism?

The Arian Baptistery, commissioned under Theodoric the Great.

Which Ravenna basilica illustrates the transition from Arian to Orthodox Christianity through its mosaics?

Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, built by Theodoric in 493 CE.

What is notable about the construction of the Mausoleum of Theodoric (520 AD)?

Its circular, two-story form topped by a single massive monolithic stone roof.

Which Byzantine church in Ravenna (548 AD) features mosaics of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora?

The Basilica of San Vitale.

Which Ravenna basilica (549 AD) is dedicated to St. Apollinaris and has famous pastoral apse mosaics?

Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe.

What was the Carolingian dynasty known for during the 8th–9th centuries?

Empire-building under Charlemagne and promoting the Carolingian Renaissance.

Which Modenese-Ferrarese family served the Este court with military, diplomatic, and artistic contributions?

The Tassoni Estense di Castelvecchio family.

Which Romanesque cathedral begun in 1099 is renowned for Wiligelmo’s sculptures and the Ghirlandina bell tower?

Modena Cathedral.

What is historically significant about the Abbey of Saint-Denis near Paris?

It is the royal burial site of French kings and considered the first Gothic church, rebuilt by Abbot Suger in the 1140s.

Which octagonal baptistery (1196–1216) in Parma combines Romanesque and Gothic elements and features Antelami’s sculptures?

The Parma Baptistery.

Which 13th-century octagonal fortress in Apulia was built by Emperor Frederick II and blends classical, Islamic, and Gothic styles?

Castel del Monte (1240–50).

Which basilica completed in 1253 at Assisi contains Giotto’s frescoes and has distinct Upper (Gothic) and Lower (Romanesque) churches?

The Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.

Which 1255 Florentine civic palace now serves as Italy’s national sculpture museum?

Palazzo del Bargello.

Which Dominican church in Florence features Masaccio’s 'Trinity' and a Renaissance façade by Alberti?

Santa Maria Novella.

Which Italian Gothic cathedral begun in 1290 is famous for its lavish façade and Signorelli’s frescoes in the San Brizio Chapel?

Orvieto Cathedral.

Which massive Gothic cathedral, begun in 1386 and completed over six centuries, is distinguished by countless spires and statues?

The Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral).

Which Venetian Gothic palace (1428–1430) on the Grand Canal is nicknamed the 'Golden House' for its once-gilded façade?

Ca' d'Oro.

Which former political heart of Venice combines Gothic and Renaissance elements and is linked to the Bridge of Sighs?

The Doge’s Palace.