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Federico von Borstel

This is a course on Romanesque Architecture. Romanesque Architecture is an architecture from the Middle Ages. This course is an Architectural Pilgrimage in search of the classic and elusive Romanesque Architecture. At the end of this course you will be able to recognize and appreciate buildings designed in the Romanesque style. I teach lecture courses and studios as I wish they would have been taught to me. Much of the graphic material in my lectures is taken or generated first hand directly by me on site. I teach to learn. I teach subjects as I wish they were taught to me. The Mission Statement. Education is a tool for the improvement of successive generations. I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. Confucius

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This is a course on Romanesque Architecture. Romanesque Architecture is an architecture from the Middle Ages. This course is an Architectural Pilgrimage in search of the classic and elusive Romanesque Architecture. At the end of this course you will be able to recognize and appreciate buildings designed in the Romanesque style. I teach lecture courses and studios as I wish they would have been taught to me. Much of the graphic material in my lectures is taken or generated first hand directly by me on site. I teach to learn. I teach subjects as I wish they were taught to me. The Mission Statement. Education is a tool for the improvement of successive generations. I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. Confucius

This course is designed under the premise that humans should be taught in a way that is modeled after the educational patterns of evolution.

The design, development and application of educational systems based on the educational principles of evolution generates a philosophy and methodology of education in synchrony with the evolutionary education system that is firmly and deeply rooted in each of us.

Education for evolution is an educational system designed to help propel humans forward in the natural course of evolution. The purpose of education for evolution is to enhance and strengthen the natural evolutionary process of humans through the mechanism of education. The means to achieve this objective is the design of a curricula based on the same educational techniques and strategies used by natural evolution, enhanced and guided by the application of conscious educational decisions.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • This course is an architectural pilgrimage into romanesque architecture.
  • The course enhances human development.
  • The course seeks to enrich your life experience.
  • The course promotes self-learning.

Syllabus

Introduction
Romanesque Architecture Lecture 2
Romanesque Architecture Lecture 3
Romanesque Architecture Lecture 4
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Offers an architectural pilgrimage into Romanesque architecture, providing an immersive experience for those passionate about the style
Seeks to enrich life experience, which may appeal to individuals seeking personal growth through the study of art and architecture
Promotes self-learning, which may be ideal for individuals who enjoy exploring subjects at their own pace and in their own way
Presents lectures with graphic material generated first-hand on site, offering a unique perspective for architecture students
Enhances human development, which may be of interest to those seeking to broaden their understanding of art and culture

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Reviews summary

Architectural pilgrimage and overview

According to learners, this course offers an engaging and enriching introduction to Romanesque Architecture, particularly praised for its passionate instructor and superb visual documentation, often gathered firsthand. Many appreciate the unique 'architectural pilgrimage' approach, finding it an evocative way to experience the subject. It's seen as excellent for enthusiasts and lifelong learners seeking appreciation and historical context. However, some reviewers found the course lacked the depth needed for serious academic or technical analysis. A few also felt the philosophical tangents were strange or distracting. Overall, it's a largely positive experience for those seeking a visually rich and experiential overview.
Excels at building appreciation, less technical analysis.
"While it was great for building appreciation, it didn't go deep into technical architectural analysis, which might disappoint some pros. Good for enthusiasts though."
"The focus on appreciation and understanding the context rather than just dry facts was perfect for me as a lifelong learner."
"It's more about experiencing the architecture through stories and images than rigorous academic study."
Unique structure offers an experiential journey through sites.
"It felt like a real architectural pilgrimage. Very enriching and inspiring."
"The way the material is presented makes you feel like you're traveling alongside the instructor."
"Engaging lectures with fantastic visual material. The 'pilgrimage' concept is unique and works well to frame the learning."
Rich visuals and enthusiastic teaching enhance experience.
"Absolutely loved this course! The lecturer is clearly passionate and brings the subject to life with his firsthand photos and engaging stories."
"Wonderful journey through Romanesque sites! The passion of the instructor is infectious. The visual documentation is superb."
"Engaging lectures with fantastic visual material. The 'pilgrimage' concept is unique and works well..."
"The instructor's personal touch with site photos is a major plus."
Some parts felt low quality.
"Also, the production quality felt a bit low in places."
"Waste of time... Production quality was poor."
Philosophical digressions seen as irrelevant/distracting.
"...the philosophical tangents about 'evolutionary education' were a bit strange and distracting from the architecture itself."
"The 'evolutionary education' stuff wasn't clear or relevant to the architecture."
"Decent overview, but the lectures were sometimes rambling. The 'evolutionary education' stuff wasn't clear..."
Not sufficiently rigorous for advanced/professional study.
"While it was great for building appreciation, it didn't go deep into technical architectural analysis..."
"Lacked the depth and analytical rigor needed for serious study."
"Better suited for casual interest than academic purposes."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Romanesque Architecture with these activities:
Review Medieval History
Prepare for the course by refreshing your knowledge of the historical context in which Romanesque architecture developed.
Browse courses on Medieval History
Show steps
  • Review notes from history courses.
  • Read articles on medieval Europe.
  • Focus on the 10th-12th centuries.
Review 'Architecture in the Romanesque'
Gain a broader understanding of Romanesque architecture by studying a comprehensive survey of buildings across Europe.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Architecture in the Romanesque'.
  • Browse the book's photographs.
  • Read the introductory chapters.
  • Focus on regions of interest.
Review 'Romanesque Art: Selected Papers, Volumes I & II'
Explore the artistic context of Romanesque architecture by studying key works and theories on Romanesque art.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Romanesque Art'.
  • Read the introductory essays.
  • Select several chapters to read.
  • Take notes on key themes.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore Online Resources on Vaulting Techniques
Enhance your understanding of Romanesque vaulting by studying online tutorials and resources.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on vaulting.
  • Focus on Romanesque examples.
  • Practice drawing vaulting diagrams.
  • Take notes on key concepts.
Create a Romanesque Architecture Photo Journal
Reinforce your understanding of Romanesque architectural elements by documenting examples found in your local environment or online.
Show steps
  • Research Romanesque architectural features.
  • Find examples online or locally.
  • Take or find high-quality photos.
  • Write captions describing features.
  • Compile into a digital journal.
Create a Comparative Timeline of Romanesque Architecture
Solidify your understanding of the chronological development of Romanesque architecture by creating a visual timeline.
Show steps
  • Research key Romanesque buildings.
  • Determine construction dates.
  • Choose a timeline format.
  • Add images and descriptions.
  • Refine and present the timeline.
Model a Romanesque Building
Deepen your understanding of Romanesque construction techniques by creating a physical or digital model of a Romanesque building.
Show steps
  • Select a Romanesque building.
  • Gather architectural plans.
  • Choose a modeling method.
  • Construct the model.
  • Add details and finishing touches.

Career center

Learners who complete Romanesque Architecture will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Architectural Historian
An architectural historian studies buildings and structures from the past, researching their design, construction, and cultural significance. This course on Romanesque Architecture directly aligns with the work of an architectural historian, providing deep insight into a significant period of architectural history. The course's focus on recognizing and appreciating buildings of the Romanesque style helps build a foundation for analyzing and understanding its characteristics. The course's approach of teaching to learn and emphasis on first hand experience, as well as its pilgrimage format, encourages a deep engagement with the subject matter that will be helpful to any architectural historian. Furthermore, understanding the humanistic and evolutionary approach of the course may allow the architectural historian to connect the architecture of the past with the present and future.
Architectural Conservator
An architectural conservator works to preserve and restore historic buildings. This course on Romanesque Architecture helps those interested in preserving Romanesque buildings, or buildings influenced by that style. The course provides a detailed understanding of the specific characteristics of the style that the conservator might work on. The course's emphasis on recognizing and appreciating the style will help the conservator assess the building's design. The course's focus on first hand experience may lead to a special care and understanding in conservation work. The idea of teaching designed to enhance human development is particularly relevant when considering preservation of cultural heritage.
Art historian
An art historian researches and interprets art from the past, analyzing its cultural and historical significance. This course on Romanesque Architecture is directly useful for art historians who may specialize in the art of the Middle Ages. The course provides a foundation in the understanding of Romanesque architecture itself, and a method of deep engagement with its subject that the art historian would find helpful. The course's emphasis on personal development, and the approach of learning through doing, is a useful way for an art historian to gain a deeper understanding of the subject. In addition, the course's philosophy and methodology may be useful for the art historians' own educational goals.
Historical Preservation Consultant
A historical preservation consultant advises on the restoration and preservation of historic buildings. This course on Romanesque Architecture may be useful for a consultant working on such buildings. The course's focus on recognizing and appreciating Romanesque architecture is critical for understanding how these buildings should be preserved. The course's focus on first hand experience of this architecture may inform a consultant's approach. The course's focus on evolution may provide insight into the original building's design goals. The course's emphasis on enhancing human development and life experience gives insight into the cultural value of architectural preservation.
Museum curator
A museum curator is responsible for the care and interpretation of museum collections. This course focusing on Romanesque Architecture may be useful to a museum curator working with collections that include architectural models or related artifacts from that period; or if they are working in museums that feature such architecture. This course will help develop a strong foundation in the particular style. The course's emphasis on recognizing and appreciating Romanesque architecture is directly relevant to a curator. The course's focus on personal growth and self-learning will be useful for a curator who must continually grow their knowledge and expertise. A deeper knowledge of design can inform the curator's approach to exhibition design.
Architectural Designer
An architectural designer creates building designs, often focusing on the aesthetic and functional aspects of the structure. While this course focuses on a period of the past, it may be useful to the architectural designer, giving them a better appreciation for design principles and historical context. The course's emphasis on experiencing and recognizing the Romanesque style is important when designing buildings that aim to make a connection with past architecture. The course may enhance their own design process. The course's emphasis on first hand experience and personal learning will help the architectural designer improve their work. Learning about evolution gives the designer a grounding in fundamental principles of design and function.
Art Critic
An art critic evaluates and interprets art, including architecture, for publications or other media. This course on Romanesque Architecture may be useful for an art critic who wishes to write about this type of architecture. The course's focus on recognizing and appreciating the style gives the critic a deeper knowledge and analysis. The course's emphasis on first hand experience and personal learning can help an art critic build an individual perspective. The critic can also use the course's emphasis on human development to inform their critique of art.
Art Appraiser
An art appraiser assesses the value of art and architectural pieces. This course on Romanesque Architecture helps an art appraiser who specializes in architecture from this period. The course will help an art appraiser develop a deep knowledge base on this specific style, learning to recognize the features of the style, and how it changed over time. The course's emphasis on observing the architecture first hand may help when assessing the condition of the architecture itself, while the course's mission statement regarding education may inform the appraiser's understanding of the cultural significance of the piece. A particular understanding of Romanesque material can inform appraisals of architectural design. A deep knowledge of the field greatly contributes to an appraiser's expertise.
Archaeologist
An archaeologist studies past human activity through excavation and analysis of material remains. This course on Romanesque Architecture may be useful for an archaeologist who studies the architecture that was left behind by cultures of the Middle Ages. The course has a focus on direct experience and observation of the style of architecture, which are both relevant to archaeology. The course will help the archaeologist to understand the buildings that they find. The course's emphasis on teaching to learn may additionally be useful for the archaeologist when presenting and sharing their findings. Understanding how Romanesque architecture developed within a cultural context may provide greater insights for an archaeologist.
Urban Planner
An urban planner works on the development of cities and towns, considering factors like land use, zoning, and infrastructure. This course on Romanesque Architecture may enhance their understanding of the history of urban development and the ways that architecture contributes to city design. The course's focus on recognizing and appreciating Romanesque architecture may help the urban planner to understand the historic context of urban landscapes. A better appreciation of history may help make a better urban planner. The course's emphasis on enhanced human development may influence urban planning based on human needs. Furthermore, the course's method of teaching to learn, and its emphasis on first hand experience, may provide a unique perspective.
Travel Writer
A travel writer researches and writes about travel destinations, often focusing on cultural and historical sites. This course on Romanesque architecture may be useful for travel writers who wish to write about visiting European sites that feature this style. The course will help the travel writer to understand and appreciate the architecture. The course's approach as an architectural pilgrimage will be particularly helpful in understanding the writer's perspective. The course's emphasis on first hand experience of these buildings will help cultivate a deeper perspective for a travel writer. The principles of design found in Romanesque buildings can be discussed by the writer, as well as their historical significance.
Building Surveyor
A building surveyor inspects buildings, assesses their condition, and advises on repairs or maintenance. This course on Romanesque Architecture may be useful to a building surveyor that works with historic structures. The course will help the surveyor to recognize and understand the unique aspects of the style. The course's emphasis on experiencing and appreciating Romanesque architecture will allow a building surveyor to better anticipate potential issues caused by age and material, and thus allow for greater care in assessment. The course's emphasis on first hand experience of the architecture may help a surveyor better understand the structural aspects of similar buildings. A better understanding of the style's development can reveal problems at different stages of construction.
Teacher
A teacher instructs students in a particular subject, either at the primary, secondary, or post-secondary level. This course on Romanesque Architecture may help a teacher who is teaching a class in architectural history, or related subjects. The course gives a solid grounding in the details of Romanesque architecture, while its educational theory and emphasis on first hand experience will also be very useful. The course's mission statement is very relevant if the goal is to improve the education of successive generations. Additionally, the course's emphasis on self learning and its educational model rooted in evolution may inform one's teaching style.
Landscape Architect
A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces, considering both aesthetic and functional aspects. This course on Romanesque architecture may be useful for landscape architects working on historic sites or those drawing inspiration from architectural styles of the past. While this course's primary subject is architecture, its emphasis on design may be helpful to a landscape architect. The Romanesque style is closely tied to its surrounding landscape, which is something a landscape architect will find relevant. The course's emphasis on experiencing and recognizing the style may help provide a better understanding of the connection between buildings and their landscapes. The course's focus on personal discovery and direct experience may translate to the creative process of the landscape architect.
Real Estate Developer
A real estate developer oversees the development of new properties. This course on Romanesque architecture may be useful for understanding existing building stock and how historical context informs design. The course may inform a developer's approach to architecture and encourage them to respect architectural heritage. The course's emphasis on first hand experience may help a real estate developer appreciate the built environment. The course's focus on human enhancement may inspire the design of new buildings for the modern world. The developer may also find value in understanding how evolution shapes design and building, which may help inform design in the present.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Romanesque Architecture.
Meyer Schapiro's 'Romanesque Art' offers in-depth analysis of Romanesque sculpture and painting. It provides a theoretical framework for understanding the symbolic and social contexts of the art. is valuable for gaining a deeper appreciation of the artistic and intellectual currents that shaped Romanesque architecture. It serves as excellent additional reading to supplement the course lectures.
Henri Stierlin's 'Architecture in the Romanesque' provides a comprehensive overview of Romanesque architecture across Europe. It features numerous photographs and diagrams that illustrate key architectural features and regional variations. useful reference tool for identifying and understanding the characteristics of Romanesque buildings. It is helpful for providing background and prerequisite knowledge.

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