Romanesque architecture is an
architectural style of
medieval Europe characterized by semi-circular
arches. There is no consensus for the beginning date of the Romanesque style, with proposals ranging from the 6th to the late 10th century, this later date being the most commonly held. It developed in the 12th century into the
Gothic style, marked by pointed arches. Examples of Romanesque architecture can be found across the continent, making it the first pan-European architectural style since
Imperial Roman Architecture. The Romanesque style in England is traditionally referred to as
Norman architecture.