Romanesque names a way of building that was common in western Europe in the 11th and 12th centuries, especially for churches. What you notice first is the round arch — a half-circle over doors and windows — and thick, heavy pillars and walls. The buildings look strong and a little dark, with small windows, because the walls had to carry the weight. Later came Gothic building, with pointed arches and more glass. The name means in a Roman-like style: those round arches remind people of old Roman work. It is a history-of-art word, used in books and on museum signs, not in street talk.