Gothic Architecture: Cathedrals, Elements, and History
Gothic Architecture: Origins and Price
Gothic architecture originated in northern France in the early 12th century, succeeding the Romanesque tradition, and reached its perfection in the 13th century. A key element is the Gothic cathedral, which defines the appearance of the Gothic city. The cathedral is the spiritual symbol of the church, and its celestial nature is reflected through:
- Verticality: The cathedral’s vertical lines make man feel small in the face of its grandeur. This feeling is emphasized by slender columns, pinnacles, and spires that reach incredible heights.
- Conception of Space and Light: The image of light is crucial. Material light is seen as a parallel to heavenly light. This is conveyed through the colors of stained-glass windows.
- Naturalism: Learning from nature, the order is defined by the outdoor order, seemingly inspired by the veins of plants.
Characteristic Elements of Gothic Architecture
- Pointed Arch: The pointed arch is characteristic. The arch is supported by *faixons* and *bakers*, reinforcing the main nave. These arches allow for greater roof elevation, reducing lateral pressure.
- Support Elements: The main support is the compound pier, although during the transition, Romanesque pillars were still used. The pure Gothic pier is surrounded by semi-cylindrical columns on a polygonal base. The number of columns increased over time. This Gothic pier with *nirvis* is a consequence of the need to support vaults with more *nirvis* and moldings. The foothills are also characteristic of Romanesque architecture, with an element that characterizes Gothic architecture: the flying buttress. This element was designed to counteract the forces of the vaults. The flying buttress rises to a pinnacle, which has an ornamental function and helps balance support. In addition, the flying buttress serves to drain rainwater, channeling it to gargoyles.
- Vaults: The pointed or ribbed vault, consisting of pointed arches, is lighter than any round vault. The ribbed vault results from the crossing of two pointed barrel vaults supported by two diagonal ribs (sexpartite vault). Over time, the number of *nirvis* and moldings increased, creating star-shaped vaults.
- Plant: The typical form is the basilica. It is a living plant with 3 or 5 naves. Sometimes, it takes the shape of a Latin cross with a transept. The aisles extend behind the presbytery to form an ambulatory, which can be single or double and has polygonal chapels (apse).
- Façade: Gothic church façades have several elements. Usually, at the foot, there are two rectangular towers. These bodies are finished with octagonal shapes topped with acute or sharp spires to enhance verticality. Rose windows can be placed, one or as many as there are walls in the façade.
Examples of Gothic Cathedrals
- France: Notre Dame, Chartres, Reims, Amiens, Sainte-Chapelle.
- Spain: Burgos Cathedral, León Cathedral, Palma Cathedral, and Palma’s Lonja.