Gothic Buildings: Past and Present
After reading comments about the origin of the term “Gothic” (see last post), I became more curious about Gothic art and architecture, so I did some more research. It seems that Gothic art and, more importantly, architecture, began in France in the twelfth century and spread throughout Europe for the next three centuries. (That’s a long time!) Gothic architecture is marked by high, pointed arches, lots of space, and an interesting and abundant use of light. Features like flying buttresses, stained glass windows (many Gothic buildings are cathedrals), rose windows, and sculpture were also important to Gothic architecture.
One of the first notable Gothic buildings is Saint-Denis Basilica in France. Take a look:
Another example is the Cathedral of Chartres, also in France:
Even at first glance, there are lots of similarities between the two buildings: the rose window, other tall, thin windows, and the general shape and height of the building.
Like Gothic literature, Gothic architecture continues today. Here is a New Jersey church built in the Gothic style:
Source:
“Gothic Architecture and Art.” Colombia Encyclopedia. 6th ed. 2008. High Beam Encyclopedia. 28 Apr. 2008 <http://www.encyclopedia.com/beta/doc/1E1-Gothicar.html>.
Image locations:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b4/SaintDenisExterior.jpg/250px-SaintDenisExterior.jpg
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8e/Chartres_1.jpg/250px-Chartres_1.jpg
http://www.sthenry.net/sitebuilder/images/StHenry-684×534.jpg
