FACTS IN THE BAROQUE

The Baroque is a period of artistic style that used exaggerated motion and clear, easily interpreted detail to produce drama, tension and exuberance in sculpture, painting, architecture, literature, dance, and music. The style began around 1600 in Rome, Italy and spread to most of Europe. The popularity and success of the Baroque style was encouraged by the Roman Catholic Church, which had decided at the time of the Council of Trent, in response to the Protestant Reformation, that the arts should communicate religious themes in direct and emotional involvement.  The aristocracy also saw the dramatic style of Baroque architecture and art as a means of impressing visitors and expressing triumph, power and control. Baroque palaces are built around an entrance of courts, grand staircases and reception rooms of  increasing opulence. Some examples of baroque art are: - Painting: The three graces (Rubens) - Sculpture: Apollo & Daphne (Bernini) - Architecture: Obradoiro façade of Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela (churrigueresque)