The derivation of cross‐in‐square churches in terms of their interior tectonic configuration: The genealogy of cross‐in‐square churches during the Middle Byzantine period (1)

Abstract

Abstract The cross‐in‐square was one of the most common church types during the Middle Byzantine period (9th–12th centuries). Previous studies established the definingfloor layout of these churches but did not investigate their development over time. This paper looks at as many churches as possible (95) within the area of Byzantine cultural influence to note the chronology of changes in their tectonic configuration; i.e., construction methods and three‐dimensional shapes. Two different lineages are identified, along with another group that does not amount to a lineage; previous studies have overlooked these changes in architectural configuration over time in their focus on the floor plans.

Keywords

• Byzantine architecture
• Christian architecture
• tectonic configuration
• cross‐in‐square church
• chronological changes