Much of the key architectural characteristics of the Renaissance can be distinguished in government buildings and religious buildings (cathedrals or chapels). Stylistically, Renaissance architecture still carried many of the same features of the Gothic period that preceded it; for instance, the Palazzo Pubblico in Siena bears the pointed arches of the trifore windows. Crenellations, or "teeth-like" features, were also a part of the fortress architecture of governmental buildings--such is seen in the Palazzo Vecchio's facade in Florence. 

Renaissance architecture also adopted much of the distinguishing features from the classical Roman. Such is seen in many of the columns and pilasters of Renaissance buildings, that follow the Roman orders of columns: Doric, Ionic, or Corinthian. The dome was also frequently incorporated for the roofing of many buildings, both governmental and religious structures: the Florence Cathedral in Santa Maria del Fiore and the St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.