Counter Reformation on Churches

A series of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the impact of the Counter Reformation on church architecture.

Council of Trent

A council held from 1545-1563 to discuss church design and practices after the Reformation.

Elevation of site

A guideline for church design that suggests raising the location for better visibility.

Carlo Borromeo

Archbishop of Milan who provided architectural guidelines for church design.

Single nave with side aisles

A church design featuring one main nave and two of the four side aisles.

Baptismal font chapel

A designated space for the baptismal font that was moved from its previous location.

St. Peter's Basilica

An example of church architecture aligned with the guidelines from the Counter Reformation.

Vignola's II Gesu

A church in Rome known for implementing the design principles recommended during the Counter Reformation.

Andrea Palladio

An influential architect of the Renaissance known for his works that blend classical Roman architecture with humanism.

Villa Barbaro

A villa designed by Palladio that combines farms and residences for the Venetians.

II Redentore

A church designed by Palladio commissioned by the Venetian senate in gratitude for stopping the bubonic plague.

Counter-Reformation

The period of Catholic revival following the Protestant Reformation, aimed at reaffirming Catholic doctrine and practices.

Purpose of Counter-Reformation Church Design

To inspire awe and devotion, reaffirm Catholic doctrine, and attract worshipers back to the church through grand and clear architectural statements.

Altar Emphasis

A key feature in Counter-Reformation church design, where the main altar was given central prominence to draw focus during mass and ritual.

Basilica Palladiana

A public building in Vicenza, Italy, redesigned by Andrea Palladio, known for its loggias and the serial use of an arch-and-column motif (Serlian window).

Villa Rotonda (Villa Capra "La Rotonda")

A centrally planned villa designed by Palladio, famous for its four identical facades and porticos, each leading to a central circular hall.

The Four Books of Architecture

Andrea Palladio's influential architectural treatise, published in 1570, which systematically presented his work and theories, largely based on classical Roman models.

Palladianism

An architectural style derived from the designs of Andrea Palladio, characterized by classical forms, symmetry, and strict proportion, which became highly influential, especially in England and America.

Facade of II Gesu

Known for its two superimposed orders and dynamic sculptural quality, illustrating the early Baroque style adopted for Counter-Reformation churches.

Baroque Architecture

An architectural style that emerged from Counter-Reformation ideals, characterized by elaborate ornamentation, dramatic forms, and grandeur, aiming to evoke emotion and awe.

Central Plan

An architectural layout where all parts of a building (or a significant portion) radiate from a central point, often seen in Renaissance and some classical structures.