Renaissance architecture is a style of architecture that emerged in Florence, Italy, during the early 15th century, marking a revival of ancient Roman and Greek architectural forms, principles, and aesthetics. This period was characterized by a conscious revival of classical antiquity, influenced by the cultural rebirth known as the Renaissance.
The roots of Renaissance architecture can be traced back to the intellectual and cultural environment of Quattrocento Florence, where architects began to study and emulate the architectural treatises of the ancient Roman architect Vitruvius, particularly his work "De architectura". Filippo Brunelleschi, often considered the first Renaissance architect, studied the remains of Roman buildings, which influenced his designs, most notably the dome of the Florence Cathedral (Duomo).
From Italy, Renaissance architecture spread across Europe, adapting to local tastes and traditions:
Renaissance architecture's emphasis on clarity, simplicity, and rationality laid the groundwork for subsequent architectural movements, including Baroque and Neoclassicism. Its principles are still taught in architecture schools today, influencing modern design with its focus on humanistic values, proportionality, and the integration of art with architecture.