What are the three main attributes of a Gothic cathedral?


What are the three main attributes of a Gothic cathedral?

See if you can identify the three main Gothic architectural features:
  • Pointed arches.
  • Rib vaulting.
  • Flying buttresses.


What is a Gothic arch called?

A pointed arch, ogival arch, or Gothic arch is an arch with a pointed crown, whose two curving sides meet at a relatively sharp angle at the top of the arch. This architectural element was particularly important in Gothic architecture. The earliest use of a pointed arch dates back to bronze-age Nippur.


What are the main features of a cathedral?

The typical cathedral contains a narthex at the entrance, three aisles with the central being the nave, a transept that gives the church its cross shape, an open choir where the nave and transept meet, and an apse at the far end of the nave, containing the altar.


What are 3 traits associated with Gothic architecture?

The main characteristics of Gothic architecture include pointed arches, stained-glass windows, flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, and spires.


What are the four levels of Gothic cathedrals?

Early Gothic (1120-1200) 1163-1345) and Laon Cathedral (c. 1112-1215). A series of four distinct horizontal levels soon evolved: ground-level, then tribune gallery level, then triforium gallery level, above which was an upper, windowed level called a clerestory.


What is a typical Gothic cathedral?

It is characterized by vertical proportions, pointed arches, external buttressing, and asymmetry. At great gothic cathedrals like Chartres in France and Salisbury in England, pointed arches allowed for heavy stone ceiling vaults despite the fact that the walls were pierced for huge stained-glass windows.


Why are Gothic cathedrals so tall?

In its conception, gothic churches were meant to stretch into the sky, soaring up into the heavens. Tall towers, elongated finials, and intricate spires are just some of the mechanisms used to create this angelic ascension.