Gothic Buildings

The general characteristics of gothic architecture focus on detail and structural shape. This type of architectural design was created by the Catholic Church with the purpose of sending the message of mans insignificance when compared to God. Most of the structures associated with the gothic style of design are extended vertically and focus on drawing the eye upward. Huge pointed towers, pointed ogee shaped arches, high ceilings and narrow columns were used in gothic architecture to create this effect. Other elements that could also be connected to the gothic architectural style included stone buildings, elaborate interior paintings, detailed sculptures and stained glass. Large amounts of glass were often included in the buildings design to allow a greater quantity of light to enter the room with the intent of creating a more peaceful environment.

The following is a sample of some of the specific buildings that are examples of gothic architecture:

Saint Denis Abbey Church:
This architectural landmark is located in France and is the location where the gothic style originated. Saint Denis Abbey Church is used as a burial site for the monarchs of France and this structure is thought to be the first piece of gothic architecture. Abbot Suger began to design this church in 1136 and first envisioned a linear themed building that contained an amazing look of light and color.
The major construction of this building was not completed until the late 1400’s and during this time the choir of Saint-Denis was dramatically enhanced as the gothic period increased in popularity.

Westminster Abbey:
This important gothic styled structure is located in England and is the place where monarch burial and royal coronations take place. During the gothic period this famous structure was redesigned from the “Norman” architectural style to an elaborate gothic style that was organized by Henry III. An architect named Henry Yevele completed the design of this huge stone building and it continues to be one of the most well known pieces of gothic architecture today.

Sainte-Chappelle in Paris:
This royal chapel located in France is known for its beautiful gothic design. It is thought to be the most visually beautiful chapel in the world because of its stoned framework and decorative stained glass windows. The design plan for this building was started in 1241 and the construction of this structure was completed seven years later (during a time when gothic styled architecture was at its peak in popularity.)

Milan Cathedral:
The Milan Cathedral is a building located in Italy and is extremely famous for its size and detail. This structure is 157 meters long and it largest spire 109 meters high (making it the second largest Roman Catholic cathedral in the world.) It took one hundred years to complete this building and because of this it became a building of interest to architectural designers. The complexity of this building can be seen as a result of its combination of gothic and neo-gothic designs making this building both a unique asset and building repair hindrance.

Tribune Tower:
This structure is a more modern design located in the United States. Raymond Hood and John Howells designed this neo-gothic styled structure when they had entered a contest to design “the most beautiful and eye-catching building in the world”. The construction of the 465-foot tall Tribune Tower was completed in 1925. This structure has incorporated sculptures and lights at the top of the tower that are an amazing sight at night. The most interesting aspect of the Tribune Tower is the 136 different stone pieces that are added to the lower levels of the building. Some of these stones are from places such as the Taj Mahal, Great Wall of China, the Parthenon and most recently the Moon.

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