Boroque

Baroque design began in the 16^th century in Italy. It began in the light of the Renaissance and grew popularity mainly amongst the Roman Churches. This design consisted of new techniques of shadow and light and displayed a high intensity in detail and depth. Since this design called for embellishments, it became an expensive type of design. Seeing that the Roman Catholic Church adopted this style was an expression of their wealth and superiority. This was important especially since the Protestant church was an entity that was created after they separated themselves from the Catholic Church. Thus, Baroque was a religious and social movement as well as a movement in design.

The main characteristics of this design are oval shaped or wider naves, architectural elements that were purposely incomplete, dramatic lighting also known to be strong contrasts in light, a wide use of color and ornaments usually made of wood, marble, stucco, etc., frescoes in large measures, a centralized and external façade, and paintings and sculptures in the interior. Many of the famous building that project this style are Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, Electors Palace in Trier in Germany, Santa Susana in Spain, and San Benedetto in Cantania in Italy. This style was later interpreted, or if you will, “revived” in the later century that became known as Rococo revival.