Architecture - Cathedrals & Great Churches - Part 6

Cathedral of Notre-Dame d’Amiens
Amiens, France

Today we reach the end of the exploration of the architecture of cathedrals and great churches. In today’s final post we explore revivals, modern, and post modern styles. Interesting timing that yesterday I purchased an antique engraving. That of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame d’Amiens. Perhaps next week’s exploration. The previous posts can be read here. Part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,

Cathedrals and great churches have continued to evolve in architectural styles, reflecting the cultural and technological changes of their times. Here’s an overview of the architectural styles during the Revival periods, Modernism, and Postmodernism:

Revivals (19th-20th centuries)

Characteristics:

Gothic Revival: Inspired by Gothic architecture, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. Emphasis on verticality and ornate decoration.
Neoclassical Revival: Inspired by classical Greek and Roman architecture, featuring columns, pediments, and symmetry.
Romanesque Revival: Features round arches, heavy masonry, and robust structure, inspired by Romanesque architecture.

Examples:
- Gothic Revival: St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York City – Known for its pointed arches, intricate tracery, and towering spires.
- Neoclassical Revival: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington D.C. – Incorporates classical elements like domes and porticoes.
- Romanesque Revival: Church of St. Mary Magdalene, Toronto – Displays round arches and a fortress-like appearance.

Modern Architecture (20th century)

Characteristics:

Emphasis on minimalism, functionality, and the use of new materials like steel, glass, and concrete.
Simplified forms and lack of ornamentation.
Open floor plans and large windows for natural light.

Examples:

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, UK – Known for its strikingly modern design, with a circular plan and radial chapels.
Notre Dame du Haut, Ronchamp, France – Designed by Le Corbusier, featuring sculptural forms and an innovative use of concrete.
Cathedral of Brasília, Brazil – Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, characterized by its hyperboloid structure and modernist aesthetics.

Postmodern Architecture (late 20th century to present)

Characteristics:

Reaction against the austerity of modernism, reintroducing ornamentation, color, and historical references.
Use of eclectic styles and playful forms.
Incorporation of cultural and contextual elements.

Examples:

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, Los Angeles – Designed by Rafael Moneo, it blends modernist elements with symbolic and cultural references.
Jubilee Church, Rome – Designed by Richard Meier, it features a combination of modernist and postmodernist elements, with its curving walls and white concrete construction.
Santuario de la Virgen de las Lajas, Colombia – A dramatic church that blends traditional and modern elements, built into a canyon.

Differences and Evolution

Revivals: Sought to bring back historic styles, often with a romanticized view of the past.
Modern: Focused on simplicity, functionality, and the use of new materials and construction techniques.
Postmodern: Reacted against the strictness of modernism, embracing a more eclectic and expressive approach.

These architectural styles demonstrate how the design of cathedrals and great churches has continually adapted to reflect changing tastes, technological advancements, and cultural shifts over time.

Kronstadt Naval Cathedral
Saint Petersburg, Russia