Gothic Architecture

Gothic Architecture Gothic Architecture is a very interesting topic that I chose because of its unique style. It was originated in the 12th century France to the 16th century, and it was also known as Frankish work. Gothic Architecture came from Romanesque architecture and was succeeded by Renaissance architecture. This style was mostly used by cathedrals builders. This type of architecture is commonly seen in Europe mostly in cathedrals, abbeys and churches. It is also common for castles, palaces, town halls, universities and private dwellings. Most Gothic churches and cathedrals can be recognized for its characteristic features: pointed arch, the ribbed vault and flying buttress which differentiate them from others. One significant improvement and basic element in the Gothic Architecture was the Pointed Arch. It distributes the weight of the heavy ceilings and bulkier designs; therefore, there is a great possibility that walls were thinner. Also, it can be built to any height and can hold more weight than regular pillars. Due to this improvement, the Pointed Arch allowed simple windows to look more decorative, and they were later filled with stained glass adding dimension and color to them. In addition, this type of arch has influenced many other gothic designs; for example, the vaulted ceilings. The ribbed vault allowed additional windows and clerestories to be high up in the building and it also gave space for additional saints and angels. In the early gothic era, most buildings were made out of stone to support the weight of the wooden ceilings. In addition, the

Ribbed Vault used columns decorated with diagonal ribs to support the weight and it also gave a sense of unity to the structure. Flying Buttress is another important characteristic in the Gothic Architecture. It is a masonry arch that goes outside of a building, often along the length of the nave of the cathedral. It also takes the weight off the walls; therefore, all the weight is put