Renaissance Architecture refers to the architectural style of the period from the early 15th to the early 17th centuries, which originated in Florence, Italy, and spread to other parts of Europe. This period marked a revival of interest in the classical art, literature, and architecture of Ancient Rome and Ancient Greece, leading to a shift away from the Gothic Architecture that had dominated Europe for centuries.
The Renaissance, meaning "rebirth," was a cultural movement that began in Italy during the Late Middle Ages and later spread to the rest of Europe. This era was characterized by a renewed interest in humanism, which emphasized the value and worth of the individual. Architects, artists, and scholars sought to emulate the classical principles of harmony, proportion, and symmetry found in ancient Roman and Greek works.
From its origins in Italy, Renaissance architecture spread across Europe, adapting to local traditions and leading to various regional styles:
Renaissance architecture set the stage for the subsequent Baroque Architecture, which continued many of its principles but with increased drama and complexity. The principles of symmetry, proportion, and the use of classical elements became foundational for Western architecture for centuries to follow.