Gothic architecture and artistic expression flourished throughout the Roman Empire of Europe from the 12th century until well into the Renaissance period. The forms and innovations bucked classical trends in Roman architecture, as they were born of utilitarian concerns. As a result, critics dubbed the movement Goth, after the Germanic nomads who were blamed for diluting Roman civilization since the third century.
One engineering marvel that distinguishes this style of architecture is the pointed entrance or window arch. This advancement enabled architects to construct structures that were taller than previous classical designs. Stained-glass depictions of saints in the new Gothic art style adorned many of these windows. Peaked arches were also seen on the inside of Gothic structures, in supports and entryways.
Gothic art is also indicated other architectural elements. Roofs could be made of lighter materials because of the ribbed vaulted ceilings. The flying buttress is another distinguishing feature — the more the better. These often-ornamental braces also assisted structures in resisting the natural force exerted on the masonry the vaulted ceiling’s weight, allowing builders to make vaulted ceilings taller and more heavenly. It also reduced the cost of construction eliminating the need for extremely thick load-bearing walls.
Gothic art can be found all over Europe, including many Catholic cathedrals dedicated to Notre Dame, or “Our Lady.” The Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris is perhaps the most famous example in France, but students of architecture also admire the Salisbury Cathedral in England, the Trondheim Cathedral in Norway, and the Domm de Milan in Italy. From the 12th to the 15th centuries, hundreds of other grand basilicas and castles were built in the Gothic style, many of which are still standing in 2011.
Early Gothic art was first displayed in France’s long-prosperous Paris region. It’s also where the first Gothic painting style arose. More flowing, naturalistic depictions are allowed in this style than in the previous classic style. Most of these early sculptures, paintings, and stained-glass windows depicted religious scenes, whether scenes from the New Testament or homages to martyred saints, due to their primary location in cathedrals.
The circular rose window, such as those found in the Cathedral of Notre Dame and Chartres Cathedral in France, was a standard stamp of Gothic art in the 14th century. Intricate stained-glass depictions of Christ’s relationships can be found in these windows. His relationships with his mother, Mary, his disciples, God, and the vastly uncharted universe expanding in every direction were among them.