{"id":17259,"date":"2023-10-28T00:26:07","date_gmt":"2023-10-27T23:26:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.architecturemaker.com\/?p=17259"},"modified":"2023-10-28T00:26:07","modified_gmt":"2023-10-27T23:26:07","slug":"why-was-gothic-architecture-created","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.architecturemaker.com\/why-was-gothic-architecture-created\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Was Gothic Architecture Created"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Gothic architecture came about in the 12th century as an architectural style based largely on a Roman style of architecture called Romanesque. The days of the Romanesque period saw most major buildings (such as churches) constructed of large stone blocks. Little decorative features were added, losing the intricate classical designs which had previously been a prominent element of European castles and churches. Gothic architecture, on the other hand, saw a greater focus on style and decoration, developing more complex stone detailing, ribbed vaults and pointed spires. The use of higher and lighter walls along with the inventive use of ribbed vaults created more space inside the building while also contributing to its elaborate design.<\/p>\n

It is commonly accepted by experts that the primary creator of Gothic architecture was a French monk named Abbot Suger. He was tasked with rebuilding the Abbey Church at St. Denis near Paris and was motivated to do something different from the Romanesque style. Suger’s vision was to purposefully create a sense of soaring. He sought to make the walls seem to float and, along the way, invented new ways of supporting those walls and ceilings. This desire to create vast interior spaces forms one of the primary principles of Gothic architecture.<\/p>\n

The increased focus on design was driven not only by technical advancements and innovative thinking, but also by a larger religious and spiritual movement occurring during this period. This period was known as the height of the Christian faith being practiced in Europe. People were being called to offer more of themselves to their faith and Gothic architecture provided a practical way to do this. Gothic architecture became a reflection of the emotion and passion of the people, creating incredible works of beauty to glorify their faith.<\/p>\n

Despite the advancements that made it possible to build larger, taller, lighter and more intricate structures, the more technical aspects of Gothic architecture still relied heavily on the input of skilled craftsmen and laborers. These workers had to know how to cut, carve, and shape the stone in order to create the intricate designs. Additionally, many of the elements of Gothic architecture, such as the ribbed vaults, still relied on existing Romanesque technologies.<\/p>\n