"When you take a trip to Europe, you'll inevitably encounter one of the hundreds of Gothic cathedrals that dot the landscape. Built during the 12th through 16th centuries, these medieval masterpieces were born out of Romanesque architecture, which saw churches designed with thick walls, round arches, and large towers. Gothic architecture, on the other hand, focused on height and light; despite being constructed from heavy stone, Gothic cathedrals seem to defy the laws of gravity. Common traits include pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses,"
"12th through 16th centuries, these medieval masterpieces were born out of Romanesque architecture, which saw churches designed with thick walls, round arches, and large towers. Gothic architecture, on the other hand, focused on height and light; despite being constructed from heavy stone, Gothic cathedrals seem to defy the laws of gravity. Common traits include pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, all of which enabled the structures to be built taller and stronger. Here, we've rounded up 11 of the best examples of Gothic cathedrals."
When traveling in Europe, one commonly encounters hundreds of Gothic cathedrals constructed between the 12th and 16th centuries. Gothic architecture developed from Romanesque precedents that featured thick walls, round arches, and large towers. Gothic designers prioritized height and light, creating interiors that appear to defy gravity despite heavy stone construction. Architectural innovations such as pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses redistributed weight and allowed for taller, more open structures. These structural advances produced taller, stronger cathedrals with more light-filled spaces. Many outstanding examples of Gothic cathedrals are found throughout Europe, showcasing regional variations of these characteristic features.
Read at Architectural Digest
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