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Gothic Architecture: The First Modern Macrostructures
When one thinks of Gothic architecture, one thinks of flying
buttresses – a half arch, usually ornately decorated, that supports the
roof of very large structures so that the entire weight does not fall
on the wall. Flying buttresses supported ribbed vaults, which are large
rooms that are supported by structures that look like ribs lining the
surface of the walls. Gothic architecture, springing from the Central
European area in eastern Germany and France from which the Goths hail,
is always thought of as dark and forbidding.
It was designed to be quite the opposite. Gothic structures rested only
lightly on the outer walls of buildings, which meant the walls were
free to include elaborate stained glass artwork, to let in the light of
God; and because weight could be distributed more widely, buildings
could be erected higher than ever before, again, to stand tall in the
glory of God. As you might guess, gothic architecture was used
primarily to build churches and other religious buildings.
Gothic architecture was the most popular design for large buildings
like churches for much of the medieval period, from about the 11th
century through the Renaissance. Its relatively light and ornate lines
are found at the same time as the heavily fortified castles of Europe.
Early Gothic architecture shows evidence of strong regional flavoring.
It’s not hard to tell the difference between German, French, Spanish,
or British Gothic cathedrals, simply because they borrowed so much from
local tradition and local artistic talent.
Gothic architecture acts as a pattern for much of what we build today,
including some Victorian architecture and churches built on traditional
lines. Look around and you will see, in many small and large towns,
that Gothic architecture is alive and well. It adds depth and character
to almost any surrounding or community.
