Romanesque Art Vocabulary

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms related to Romanesque Art, providing definitions to assist in understanding the concepts.

Primogeniture

The right of the firstborn child to inherit the family estate.

Pilgrimage

A journey to a place of significance, often for religious reasons.

Portal

An entrance, typically a large and imposing one.

Tympanum

The semi-circular space above the lintel of a doorway, often decorated with reliefs.

Transept

The area of a church that crosses the main axis, perpendicular to the nave.

Cloister

A covered walk in a monastery or cathedral, typically with a garden.

Façade

The front or face of a building, often distinguished from other sides.

Relic/reliquary

A relic is a physical remains or memorial of a saint; a reliquary is a container for such relics.

Ribs

Structural elements in vaults and ceilings that support the weight.

Transverse arches

Arches that run across the nave of a church or structure, providing stability.