Bramante's plan for St. Peter's Basilica

Donato Bramante's plan for St. Peter's Basilica stacked classical architectural ideas with innovative design. He envisioned a large central nave topped by a grand dome, inspired by ancient Roman architecture like the Pantheon. The plan included a rectangular layout with massive columns and a forecourt, creating a grand sense of scale suited for a prominent Christian church. Bramante emphasized symmetry and harmony, aiming for a building that combined beauty, function, and spiritual significance. Although his original design was altered over time, his foundational concepts deeply influenced the eventual form of St. Peter’s Basilica.