High Gothic Architecture: Characteristics and Evolution
High Gothic Architecture: 12th to 15th Century
High Gothic, a style that flourished from the 12th century to the end of the 13th and 14th centuries, continued to develop into the 15th century until it was eventually superseded by the Renaissance. However, its influence persisted into the 16th century, particularly in the Iberian Peninsula. Italian Gothic architecture, which was given its name by Vasari in the 16th century, was considered at the time to be a style of the Goths. It is seen as an evolution of Romanesque architecture, both technically and aesthetically. Key differences from Romanesque include the use of pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and the verticality of buildings. The Cistercian monks were instrumental in introducing these elements to Gothic architecture. However, the style’s development was primarily driven by the growth of major cities, as evidenced by the construction of large cathedrals and monasteries.
Key Aspects of Gothic Art
- Gothic art is a civic art form that developed in cities.
- While many works are religious, the style is not exclusively so, unlike Romanesque.
- It reflects the practicality and realism of the bourgeoisie, being more humane and naturalistic.
- It spread throughout Western Europe, Northern Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.
- Factors contributing to its diffusion included pilgrimages, Crusades, trade routes, Cistercian innovations, and the importance of mendicant orders in the 13th century.
Evolution of Gothic Architecture
Founded in Normandy, the style’s development spread to England and was initially seen in the Cistercian monastery in Burgundy. The evolution of Gothic architecture varied depending on time and location, but the French Gothic style is generally considered the model.
Early Gothic
Characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and a lack of ornamentation. The first cathedrals, built in the 12th century, were based on the Cistercian model, such as those in Lleida and Tarragona, and Notre Dame in Europe.
High Gothic (Classical Period)
This period, spanning the beginning of the 13th century, saw the construction of the most important cathedrals, including those in Leon, Burgos, and Toledo.
Mannerist Gothic
The 14th century witnessed strong economic growth in the Kingdom of Aragon, which was reflected in its architecture. Cathedrals built during this period, known as Mediterranean Gothic, followed specific criteria: similar heights for buildings or a single nave, numerous small chapels often utilizing the space between buttresses, less importance given to flying buttresses, and less emphasis on abundant light. During this century, Castile experienced significant political unrest, leading to less architectural development compared to the previous century. Examples include the cathedrals of Barcelona, Girona, and Mallorca.
Flamboyant Gothic
Developed in the 15th century, this style was most prominent in northern France and Flanders (Belgium). It was characterized by an abundance of decorative elements, verticality, spear-shaped arches, complex vaults, and flame-shaped ornaments. It also spread to England, Germany, and Italy.
General Features of Gothic Architecture
Gothic architecture is, in many ways, the opposite of Romanesque. While Romanesque emphasized mass over void, resulting in dark interiors, Gothic architecture prioritized light. Walls lost their importance, giving way to large openings and stained glass windows that filled churches with light. A primary goal of Gothic architecture was to achieve verticality, creating a sense of closeness to God. This was achieved through elements like pointed arches, towers, and pinnacles. The main expression of Gothic architecture is found in cathedrals, erected in city centers as symbols of civic pride, particularly for the bourgeoisie.
Supporting Elements
- Walls: Less important in Gothic architecture due to the role of buttresses.
- Pillars: Cross-shaped pillars became more complex and slender over time, with attached columns.
- Ribs: Vaults featured increasingly prominent ribs.
- Buttresses: Located outside to provide stability to the walls.
- Flying Buttresses: Placed on the sides of the nave, these arches transfer the thrust of the ribbed vaults to the buttresses.
- Gargoyles: Used to expel rainwater from the flying buttresses.
- Pinnacles: Placed on top of buttresses, serving both a decorative and structural function.