Romanesque Architecture is a style that emerged in Europe during the 10th to 12th centuries, characterized by its massive quality, thick walls, and round arches. This architectural style often features decorative arcading and sturdy pillars, creating a sense of solidity and permanence in structures such as churches and castles. Notable examples include the Sainte-Foy Abbey in Conques and the Durham Cathedral in England.
The Romanesque period also saw the development of innovative building techniques, including the use of ribbed vaults and buttresses, which allowed for larger and more complex structures. This style laid the groundwork for the later Gothic Architecture, which further evolved these architectural principles.