EAA2020: Abstract

Round churches are a typical and widespread construction type of early medieval architecture. They appeared in Central Europe as early as the 9th century (Great Moravia Empire) and were associated with the spread of Christianity to Central Europe. Since the beginning of the 20th century, great attention has been paid to the search for the origin of this type of building and the ways in which it has spread to Central Europe. However, the results are still unclear and unconvincing. Similarly, Czech round churches are considered an inspirational source for other regions, especially Poland. The popularity of this building type ends during the 13th century. However, it only returns once again in the late Middle Ages as a manifestation of the so-called Romanesque Renaissance. The article deals with the research of round churches in Central Europe. It investigates their geographical distribution, possible origin and reasons that led to the choice of this type of construction.

Church Archaeology, Church Architecture, Round Churches, Christianization, Medieval Archaeology

 Abstract (PDF)

Martin Cechura¹