Engraved Capital from a Romanesque church

The often massive walls of Romanesque churches were enlivened by 'engaged' columns. These were false columns half-buried in the wall. They allowed vaults to connect to the walls and gave the impression that the whole church was supported by columns with their capitals. Romanesque architecture is a combination of ancient Roman and Byzantine buildings, and is known for its massive quality, thick walls, round arches, sturdy pillars, groin vaults, large towers and decorative arcading. Each building has clearly defined forms, frequently of very regular, symmetrical plan; the overall appearance is one of simplicity when compared with the Gothic buildings that were to follow.