Christian Worship Architecture and Environments c. 600 - 700 CE

Visigothic Spain

During the 6C and 7C CE, the Visigoths gradually assumed control of the Iberian peninsula. In 711 CE the area was conquered by Arabs. The Asturian reconquest of the north of Spain began in 722 CE. Architecture was small-scale and defined by cubic masses.

Near Palencia, Spain: San Juan Bautista de Banos (661 CE)

Near Zamora, Spain: San Pedro de la Nave (c. 691 CE)

Frankish Gaul

The area which is now France was Christianized beginning with the conversion of King Clovis in 486 CE. Little remains from the early period, as most major sites were rebuilt in the later medieval period.

Grenoble, France: Crypt of Saint-Laurent (late 6C or 7C CE)

Italy

The importance of the papacy as a political power reached a high point under Pope Gregory I, the Great (590-604CE). New local architectural ideas are combined with continuing strong Byzantine influence. Growing importance of Rome as a major pilgrimage center.

Rome, Old St. Peter's: Remodeling of access to the shrine (590-604 CE) [scroll down to commentary on the remodeling]

Rome, S. Agnese on Via Nomentana (625-638 CE)

Armenia

Ashtarak, Northern Armenia: Haruch Cathedral (7C CE)
Ashtarak, Northern Armenia: Karmravor Church (7C CE)
Talin, Northern Armenia: Great Church (7C CE)

Echmiadzin, Central Armenia: St. Hripsime Cathedral (628 CE)

Sisivan, Southern Armenia: Cathedral (7C CE)