Which architectural style is primarily associated with the Renaissance period?

The Renaissance period, spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, is primarily associated with a revival of Classical architecture. This style emphasized symmetry, proportion, and the use of classical elements such as columns, domes, and arches, which were inspired by the architecture of ancient Greece and Rome. Notable examples of Renaissance architecture include St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and the Palazzo Rucellai in Florence, both showcasing a return to the ideals of classical antiquity.

The Gothic architecture, which preceded the Renaissance, is characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, focusing more on verticality and light, which contrasts sharply with the harmonious proportions sought during the Renaissance. Baroque architecture emerged after the Renaissance and emphasized grandeur, drama, and movement, often incorporating more elaborate and exaggerated designs that diverged from the simplicity and balance of Renaissance forms. Modern architecture, which took shape in the late 19th and 20th centuries, moves even further away from these classical roots, emphasizing functionality and minimalist aesthetics rather than the classical influences central to the Renaissance style.