Architecture in the Renaissance
The Renaissance marked a significant revival of classical architecture, mostly seen in Italy, as the popes and wealthy merchants commissioned structures reflecting the grandeur of ancient Rome.
From the mid-15th century, architects began to excavate and study the ruins of ancient Rome, leading to a renewed interest in classical styles, often termed ‘classical revival’. Prominent figures such as Filippo Brunelleschi, who designed the Duomo in Florence, and Michelangelo, known for the Sistine Chapel, exemplified this period's artistry and innovation in architecture.
The section underlines the increased individual recognition of artists, contrasting earlier communal identities within guilds. With the rise of the printing press, architectural knowledge spread rapidly, giving rise to new techniques and styles that combined scientific understanding with artistic creativity.
The emphasis on symmetry, proportion, and the orderliness of classical architecture became hallmarks of Renaissance buildings, influencing not only Italian architecture but also spreading throughout Europe. Various patrons, especially the Church, actively encouraged this architectural trend, contributing to a flourishing of culture and learning, fundamentally altering the landscape of cities and the experience of urban life.