The Evolution of European Gothic Architecture

Gothic architecture is a style of architecture which flourished during the high and late medieval period.

Originating in 12th-century France and lasting into the 16th century, Gothic architecture was known during the period as “the French Style”, with the term Gothic first appearing during the latter part of the as a Renaissance stylistic insult.

Kylemore Gothic Church
Kylemore Gothic Church

It evolved from Romanesque Architecture and was succeeded by Renaissance Architecture. The Goths contributed many architectural ideas. Those ideas have been used in various structures in the Gothic Period most importantly in the construction of Cathedrals. Renaissance Architecture which flourished after the Gothic Architecture adopted some of its ideas but modified it according to their architectural sense of understanding.

The elements that developed duringĀ  the Gothic Period are as follows:

  1. Pointed Arch
  2. Fan-like Vault
  3. Flying Buttress

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