Gothic Architecture




View of the South transept of Notre Dame, Paris, France. Source: brusselspictures.com



 Gothic architecture became popular during the medieval period.  It evolved from a combination of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. The most obvious and prominent feature of Gothic architecture is the pointed arch, and is component to many abbeys, cathedrals and churches of the 12th Century era. Notre Dame in Paris is one of the most famous examples of Gothic architecture, and was completed in 1935.




Notre Dame, Paris, France. Source: earthinpictures.com



This view of Notre Dame shows the popular pointed arch feature common to these Gothic inspired buildings. These arches evolved from the round arches commonly round in Roman architecture. These arches were purpose built for two specific reasons. The first reason was that the arch is able to reach higher for a given width. The second reason could be seen as a defence mechanism, as they are less visible. This is an important factor when constructing masonry walls, as Gothic arches only produce half the side-thrust of Roman arches...but that's too technical for English literature.

The interior design of Notre Dame. This picture shows how the Gothic design and layout is an interior feature and attraction as well as exterior. The colour scheme also gives a Gothic feel, with dark and dimmed lights, and the use of red for the seating. There is a sense of danger and eeriness which has been carefully created for a purpose, adding a sense of mystery. Source: worldtouristhotspot.blogspot.com



The Gothic arch feature is demonstrated in this photo. The dark colours are carried on throughout the Cathedral, with lighter colours used for 'The Temple Of Reason'. Source: europeantrips.org




'The Temple Of Reason', Notre Dame. Gothic pointed arches are part of this attraction, as are the spikes and turrets. Source: laundelles.wordpress.com



Other examples of Gothic Architecture are:



Sainte Chapelle, France. Source: norstad.org/paris2006/chapelle



Gargoyles are a common feature of the Gothic as they are supernatural and scary. They create a sense of evil and danger, almost devil-like. Source: wishlist.nu/2007/10/22/gargoyle





Royaumont Abbey, France. Source: en.structurae.de