Use Of Natural Light In Monumental Church Structures Of The Modern Era

Religion and belief systems have emerged to address the fundamental human need for belief. Over time, religion has evolved and become an integral part of societal culture. Temples constructed by polytheistic beliefs to perform their religious rites and ceremonies stand as early examples of religious architecture. Within the realm of monotheistic religions, the three Abrahamic faiths, namely Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, have developed their own religious structures. This study focuses on the architectural designs of churches associated with Christianity. Drawing inspiration from basilica architecture, churches have integrated natural light as a design element within their interior spaces. For the purpose of this study, church structures from various cultures from the 20th century have been chosen as examples. The selected church edifices include the Cadet Chapel in the United States, the Church of San Josemaría Escrivá in Mexico, and St. Johann von Capistran in Germany. The utilization of natural light within the interior spaces of these church structures, built during the 20th century and representing different societies, has been examined.