Day 10
St. Maria in the Capitol, is a Romanesque Cathedral built in the 11th century and reconstructed after WWII. It is based on the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem. Romanesque architecture is characterized by thick walls, Roman round arches, low aisles and small clerestory windows. The floor plan includes a nave, isles, and ambulatory. Romanesque and Gothic churches derived their floor plan from Roman Basilicas. In Roman times, Basilicas were used as administrative buildings. Later this floor plan was adopted for religious purposes. St. Maria in the Capitol and Cologne Cathedral have the same structure with long naves and lower side aisles. Although they are similar, Gothic Architecture uses a skeletal structure that allows the building to be taller and wider. In medieval times people thought of God as the divine light, these thoughts were expressed through height. Tall clerestory windows are made out of stained glass that depict religious scenes. Additionally, the pointed arch replaced the round arch, this new development transferred weight to the sides and down piers. Flying buttresses and piers on the outside also allow for Gothic cathedrals to transfer upper weight to the outside. During the 12th century, pilgrims visited Cologne Cathedral for its relics including bones, pieces of clothes, and other objects. Devout Christians who visited the cathedral, gave money for food and shelter, these donations furthered the construction of the church. Construction was finally completed in 1880, and reconstruction began after WWII. The original medieval clerestory windows still remain intact as well as the medieval vaults of the church. It is estimated that each year, 6 million euros go into reconstruction and repairs of this magnificent church. Today Cologne Cathedral remains the tallest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe.
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