What is Gothic Architecture?
Arches
Gothic architecture uses pointed arches. During the Gothic era, builders realized that pointed arches gave structures great strength and stability. The weight of the roof was supported by the arches instead of the walls, so the walls could be thinner.
This picture is of pointed arches in Reims Cathedral in France.
Ribbed Vaulting
Ribbed vaulting uses columns to support the weight. This picture is of ribbed vaulting in Royaumont Abbey in Ashieres-sur-Oise, France.
Flying Buttresses
Flying buttresses were used to prevent the outward collapse of the arches. Freestanding brick or stone supports were attached to exterior walls by an arch or a half-arch.
This picture is of flying buttresses on Sainte-Chapelle in Riom, France.
Stained Glass Windows
Since the walls were not the primary supports of the building, Gothic buildings could have large areas of glass. This stained glass window is in Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France.
Gargoyles
Gothic style cathedrals became more and more elaborate, but gargoyles weren't just for decoration; they were originally watersprouts to protect the foundation from rain. This gargoyle is on Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France.
Church of St. Denis
The Church of St. Denis is located in Paris, France, and was built between 1140 and 1144. The ambulatory of the abbey was the earliest complete Gothic structure. The church was used as a model for most of the late 12th-century French cathedrals.