The church inside the castle. Considerations on the architecture of seventeenth century court chapels from Blaj and Buia

The present article aims at reflecting upon the use and architecture of two particular court chapels from the beginning of seventeenth century, with architectural expression kindred to medieval churches – the chapels belonging to the princely residence in Blaj and the Perneszi residence in Buia. Moreover, the Perneszi court chapel illustrates the rare situation of a medieval church incorporated into the court ensemble, whereas the princely court double chapel from Blaj, accommodated inside a wedgeshaped tower, presents clear references to medieval churches (decoration, layout) with kingly prerogative (emporia connected with the first floor private and official chambers). The contribution also entailed an introduction into a poorly investigated subject concerning post-Reformation Transylvania, namely the architecture of private court chapels, the way in which the devotional space was integrated within the complex structure of a noble or princely court in terms of functionality, exterior appearance, and relation to the ceremonial spaces of the residence (the hall, the private and official chambers). Last but not least, the study reflects the various ways in which the confessional identity found an expression in the architectural conception of private court chapels.