Gothic design style appeared hundreds of years ago but still exudes mysterious beauty and splendor in all times.

What is Gothic design style? What factors contribute to the unique character of this architecture? This article will help you find answers to these questions. Open up an interesting source of knowledge about Gothic architecture. 

What is Gothic Architecture?

Gothic architecture is also known as Francigenum Opus. Originally the term "Gothic" was interpreted in a negative sense. During the Renaissance, Gothic structures were considered by Italians to be the skull baseball jacket work of barbarians. Beca

use it was the result of the break with the techniques and aesthetic views of Greece and Rome. This style of design began to develop in the second half of the Middle Ages in Western Europe. 

Gothic architecture appears most in churches, cathedrals and some famous civil works. In particular, there is no complete similarity between the designs, so each project has its own unique beauty. There are many works of Gothic architecture recognized by UNESCO as World Cultural Heritage.

Characteristic of the Gothic design style is the use of pointed arches. This is also the difference from Roman architecture when people emphasize the logic and meaning of pointed arches instead of semicircular arches.

When did Gothic architecture appear?

Gothic design style was born after the Roman architectural period. Europeans began to build Gothic churches and palaces in the early 12th century. This architectural style uses pointed arches different from the round arches of Roman architecture. Besides, Gothic architecture has many windows with larger sizes.

Gothic architecture appears mainly in the Haute Picardie region. Experiencing development periods: Early Gothic (XII), Classical Gothic (1190 - 1230), Light Gothic (1230 - 1350) and flaming Gothic (XV - XVI). It was not until the mid-18th century that Gothic architecture entered a renaissance and spread throughout Europe during the nineteenth century. At the turn of the twentieth century, the Gothic design style still influenced the architecture of churches or universities.

Early Gothic architecture

Although construction techniques were used centuries ago, the landmark marks the official existence of Gothic architecture. The first Gothic works appeared in this period and created a stepping stone for the later period.

Classic Gothic architecture
This period is considered the period of glorious development of Gothic design style. The designs are more complete and possess distinct lines. It was at this time that great churches were erected. The decoration in the church is simplified. The interlaced columns that were once appreciated at Sens have been removed to create a sense of openness and create a distinctive design style.

Light Gothic architecture

At this time, Gothic design style has made its mark and spread throughout Europe. The buildings have a larger area with more windows, the frame is solidly built. Windows are decorated with thin borders to create sophistication but not affect the natural light outside. 

Typical Gothic buildings

The typical works of Gothic architectural design that we would like to introduce to our readers are as follows:

Church of Saint-Étienne
Salisbury Church
Westminster Abbey
Big Ben clock tower
Church of Our Lady of Reims
Details readers can see more right in this article!

Church of Saint-Étienne
Saint-Étienne Cathedral is the cathedral church of the archdiocese of Bourges. This is considered a pioneer church of Gothic architecture. The western part of the church is the largest in size in France. It was viking ugly sweater recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site (1992) as a typical work of medieval Gothic architecture.

Salisbury Church
Salisbury Cathedral is an Anglican church in Salisbury (England). This building is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England. The main body of the church was completed within 38 years (1220-1258).