Have you ever heard of Gothic architecture? This architectural style first appeared in Saint-Denis, near Paris, France in 1140. Its architectural style has a close relationship with the design of cathedrals in Europe. It is because within a century, Gothic architecture had revolutionized the cathedrals design throughout Western Europe. At that time, the Catholic church played an important role in social life. That’s why, church architecture has become important for the community.
Gothic architecture has considered to be the greatest work of building and art ever created. The front or facade of the church is made majestic and large in order to get the great power of God impression and those who worship Him. Tall buildings and towering into the sky are made to represent the high aspirations and hopes of humans to reach heaven.
This style actually as a result of bored in medieval architecture. At that time, the buildings were very limited and only functional. Therefore, the magnificent design of churches and cathedrals became the inspirition of obedience and devotion to God, because the design in the Gothic era was phenomenal. Let’s look at some of the main characteristics of this magnificent Gothic architecture.
Tall, majestic buildings, and towers with sharp edges on churches are the character of Gothic architecture. If you visit Europe and see the church or building applied this kind of design, then you can be sure that the building was built in the Gothic era. In addition, the facade decoration of the building is made in great detail. This characteristic get contrast to the Romanesque architectural style of the previous period which made flat and not too high.
The flying buttress is the most important characteristic of Gothic style décor. Gothic architects modified the ceiling dome system from earlier times and replaced it with a flying buttress. The flying buttress structure is a solution to support high structure buildings. Not only it function as a support for the building structure, but the construction also looks very decorative with the design that able to give grandeur effect.
The pointed arch serves to withstand the weight of the very heavy and thick ceiling design of the building. In addition, this arch is also a separate decoration for the interior of a majestic and tall building. This arch also allows the size of the supporting pillars at the bottom to be slimmer.
Another distinctive feature of this architecture is the large stained-glass windows that capable to fill the interior with light. This is very different from the pre-Gothic architectural style which uses little lighting so that it seems dark and shabby. Gothic architecture emphasizes lighting, large windows, and spacious interiors. This concept succeeded in changing churches and palaces to be more magnificent and pleasant to live in.
Architecturally, rose windows are used for lighting and give an aesthetic impression to the building. However, from a religious point of view, the rose window is used as a symbol of God’s word which is described as a light that enters and illuminates the hearts of church members. Rose windows are usually complemented by mosaics and clear stained glass art.
Gargoyles are small monsters that placed along the roofs or fortresses of buildings and castles. The purpose of the Gargoyles is as a drainage system for rainwater that falls from the roof and then comes out of their mouths. Not only that, Gargoyles also actually functioned to scare the evil farmers at that time because of their spooky shapes, like demons or monsters and placed face down.
In those days, many people were filled with fear and superstition. The gargoyle also became a symbol of a terrible creature that made many people seek refuge and help in the church from demons and ghosts. Gargoyles are one of the characteristics of Gothic architecture that still etched in people’s minds to this day.
The splendor of Gothic architecture is a symbol of people’s life at that time. However, today this style has become a valuable heritage in architecture.
–sh
