Palatine Chapel Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Location: Aachen, Germany
• Primary Structure: Palatine Chapel
• Architect: Odo of Metz
• Type: Carolingian architecture

Historical Context

• Material: Stone construction
  • Significance: First large-scale stone construction in Western Europe since the fall of the Roman Empire
  • Charlemagne's Aim: To recreate Roman architecture without Roman construction techniques (e.g., concrete)

Purpose

• Charlemagne's Personal Chapel: Attached to the royal audience hall
• Used by: Charlemagne and his court
• Capital City: Aachen served as Charlemagne's capital

Architectural Details

• Design Influence: Byzantine Empire
• Floor Plan: Central plan space, octagonal structure
  • Symbolism: Eight sides symbolize rebirth and resurrection

West Work

• Definition: Narthex, chapels, and towers set at the entrance of Carolingian churches
• Significance: Essential part of Carolingian church structures, particularly in modern Germany

Interior Features

• Verticality: Emphasized in design
• Gallery Space: Located above the ambulatory (curved aisle)
• Clerestory Windows: Provide natural light
• Materials: Luxurious, with extensive use of marble and mosaics
• Use of Arches: Incorporates colored voussoirs

Construction Techniques

• Spolia: Reuse of materials from classical buildings
  • Sources: Local Roman ruins and elements from Ravenna
• Influence: Basilica of San Vitale inspired the design
  • Differences: Palatine Chapel has hard edges, unlike the flowing curves of San Vitale

Cloister Vault

• Description: Dome with groined surfaces rising from an octagonal base
• Significance: First domed structure built north of the Alps since the Roman Empire

Social Hierarchy

• Seating Arrangement: Charlemagne sat on the gallery level, above others
  • Observation: He could observe others without being easily seen

Historical Importance

• Completion: 805, consecrated by Pope Leo III
• Charlemagne's Burial: Charlemagne was interred here
• Coronation Ceremonies: Used for over 700 years for coronations
• Symbolism: Reinforced Charlemagne's authority and ties to Christianity

Conclusion

• Next Topic: Abbey gatehouse in the next video