Reliquaries in the form of church buildings in european culture

European medieval art achieved remarkable sophistication through the creation of reliquaries shaped as churches, blending architectural aesthetics with spiritual significance. These intricate works, often adorned with ivory and enamel, evolved from simple oblong designs to complex structures featuring side naves, transverse elements, and decorative turrets—mirroring Romanesque church architecture. Notable examples, such as those in Aachen Chapel and Cologne Residence, showcase the craftsmanship of the time, particularly in Rhine regions. The study highlights how these reliquaries, including the famed 'Sarcophagus of the Three Wise Men,' reflect the cultural and religious developments of the period, serving as both vessels for relics and masterpieces of medieval art.

Gevorgyan, A., & Ghambaryan, V. (2024). Reliquaries in the form of church buildings in european culture. Multidisciplinary Reviews, 7, 2024ss004. https://doi.org/10.31893/multirev.2024ss004