The Expression of Symbolic Ornamentation in the Architecture of St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, Sikka

International Journal of Civil Engineering

© 2025 by SSRG - IJCE Journal

Volume 12 Issue 6

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Reginaldo Christophori Lake, L. M. F. Purwanto, Pilipus Jeraman, Ignatius P. A. N. Samane, Alexianus T. M. Uak, Dominiques S. E. D. Jeraman, Maixtefen S. Ledoh, Ubaldus Djonda, Yohanes Djarot Purbadi, Sri Yuliani

10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I6P103

How to Cite?

Reginaldo Christophori Lake, L. M. F. Purwanto, Pilipus Jeraman, Ignatius P. A. N. Samane, Alexianus T. M. Uak, Dominiques S. E. D. Jeraman, Maixtefen S. Ledoh, Ubaldus Djonda, Yohanes Djarot Purbadi, Sri Yuliani, "The Expression of Symbolic Ornamentation in the Architecture of St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, Sikka," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 12,  no. 6, pp. 31-40, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I6P103

Abstract:

This study aims to uncover the relationship between symbolic ornamentation and architecture's function, form, and meaning in Sikka's St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church building. The main focus of this research is to understand the role of symbolic ornaments in creating and reinforcing spiritual meaning and sacred presence within church architecture. This study also addresses the phenomenon in modern architecture, which often eliminates symbolic ornaments essential for representing the Christian faith. This research employs a case study approach to deeply examine the role of symbolic ornamentation in the St. Ignatius Loyola Church in Sikka. The steps taken include redrawing the church building in detail using both two-dimensional and three-dimensional modelling to obtain an accurate visual representation, followed by the description and analysis of the symbolic ornaments present in each architectural element, taking into account the principles of church architecture such as identification, balance, and orientation; and finally, interpreting these ornaments concerning function, form, and church architecture meaning. The expected results of this study include gaining an in-depth understanding of symbolic ornamentation in church architecture, which will enrich architectural theory, providing practical contributions by serving as a reference for architects and stakeholders in designing churches that not only meet physical functions but also support spiritual and symbolic meanings; and offering recommendations for the revitalization of church architecture by prioritizing symbolic ornamentation that can enhance the religious experience of the Catholic faithful.

Keywords:

Church architecture, Catholic church, Spiritual meaning, Symbolic ornamentation, Sacredness.

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