One of the most extraordinary architectural movements Gothic architecture is a style of architecture that appeared in Europe in the Late Middle Ages. Succeeded by Renaissance architecture and after Romanesque architecture, Gothic architecture has a harsh appearance to it. This style of architecture can often be found in churches and cathedrals from the 12th century through the 16th century.

When looking at and entering the churches of Gothic architecture one is amazed by the detail of work on the outside and the inside. The stained-glass windows are often extremely vibrant and bright bringing in natural light. This style of architecture is intricate and delicate all at once often known as the style for Roman Catholic churches and cathedrals throughout its time.

When looking at and entering the churches of Gothic architecture one is amazed by the detail of work on the outside and the inside. The stained-glass windows are often extremely vibrant and bright bringing in natural light. This style of architecture is intricate and delicate all at once often known as the style for Roman Catholic churches and cathedrals throughout its time.

Gothic architecture is a style that is very different from styles before that were often simple. Growing from the Romanesque style of architecture there are several features that are prominent to Gothic style. One of these features includes the high pointed arches inside and outside of the churches. This can be seen throughout Western Europe, especially in France and England. These arches are thought to have been taken from Islamic architecture which was prominent in Spain. By using a pointed arch the structure of the cathedrals was sounder while being able to use smaller columns in the aisles.

When you look in a Gothic style cathedral you can see the columns stay thin throughout the nave of the church and carry up to the ribbed vaults in the ceiling. Ribbed vaults are another feature of Gothic architecture bringing height to the ceilings. These ribbed vaults added detail as well as structure to keep the ceilings high. As the years went on the architecture developed to become more complicated with the vaults of the ceilings.

The style of architecture in this era allowed more light to shine through the churches. Due to the narrow columns and high ceilings this allowed the churches to have larger stained-glass windows bringing in more light. The light was multi colored due to the vibrant colors making up the windows. In later Gothic architecture churches nearly every corner of the church is decorated or carved out to create a seamless flow.

Stained glass within these churches was often much larger than the average that was seen previously. The windows were typically tall and arched with many colors creating a kaleidoscope effect. The size and colors of the stained-glass windows allowed more natural light to be drawn into the church. The size of these stained-glass windows was extreme taking up nearly an entire wall compared to older churches and cathedrals.

With exaggerated arches on the inside and outside of the churches, high vaulted ceilings, and larger than usual stained-glass windows this style of architecture is hard to miss. Gothic architecture not only had larger and more prominent features than Romanesque architecture, but they also had thinner walls to reach higher points. Gothic churches and cathedrals were built to be able to reach the heavens.

Architecture Throughout Europe

Gothic architecture is very different from the eras before and after it. With sharp lines and intense features this is one of the most prominent styles known today throughout Europe. Looking at the Gothic architecture in the cathedrals above you can see how they are ornate in style. With large windows and high pointed ceilings these churches are some of the most well known in the world. If you are looking for someone to clean or refurbish your stained-glass windows in your church Contact us . At Associated Crafts we pride ourselves with the delicacy and intricacy in which we clean and refurbish stained-glass.