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How Did Architecture Influence Christian Art And Architecture

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To what extent was the development of Christian art and architecture influenced by the art and architecture of classical Rome?
How was it unique?

I would say that Christian art and architecture was influenced by the art and architecture of classical Rome to a large extent, and vice versa. These influences were not restricted to art and architecture, but to other aspects of life at the time.

Apostle Paul who spread the gospel to Rome and Emperor Constantine, who as it were, legalized Christianity by an edict, laid the foundation for the growth and acceptance of Christian art and architecture.

The Romans were very welcoming of the gods of the people they conquered and with the mixing of peoples came a great mixing of thoughts, ideas, and cultures during the medieval period, and both influenced the other in a number of ways.

In terms of art, the new Christian converts introduced the use of images into their new religion, despite the Old Testament injunction that graven images should not be created. Influence was indeed two-way; the Romans soon favored inhumation in catacombs as opposed to cremation and both Roman and Christian burial places had imagery painted or carved on them. This was a novel idea that caught on. For example, …show more content…

In view of the growing number of converts, it became the model and reference point for churches built in the middle ages. With its basic rectangular form, dense and sturdy columns, additional features were added to the Christian basilicas; for example, the transepts and raised platforms from which sermons were preached. A unique feature of these buildings was that both converts and non-converts could use the space without disturbing each other. (The doors at the side aisles would be used to exit the building at any time without causing distracting the converts in the

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