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The Florence Cathedral is among the most widely-recognized churches in Italy for a variety of reasons, but it is also one of the most impressive gothic structures still in existence. Construction on the Basilica of Saint-Denis began at some time during the late 12th century and was completed in different phases throughout France’s history. This church is considered one of the greatest early gothic works from the medieval period. One of France’s most historically-rich cities is that of Saint-Denis, which is located on the northern side of Paris.
Vernacular adaptations and the revival in the Antipodes
The gothic arch was of aesthetic value and beauty like a workhorse, and it influenced other gothic designs like the vaulted ceilings. It was mostly completed by 1260 after flying buttresses were added to support the weight of the roof. Renovations and reconstruction have continued throughout the history of the church, which is one of Paris' most visited sites.
Flying buttresses
Here, we explore the genre, looking closely at its rich history, defining features, and most well-known examples. Aesthetically ornate and conceptually transcendent, the Gothic style has become one of the world's most distinctive architectural movements. Though it originated in the Middle Ages, the one-of-a-kind genre continues to captivate today, as evident in some of Europe's most beautiful buildings. Personal homes are rarely built in the Gothic style, but visits to some of the world's major cities can offer a glimpse into some of the oldest—and most elaborate—architecture in the world.
First Congregational Church of Los Angeles
Most, if not all, realtors and others around the country will be familiar with Gothic architecture and will likely be able to show you a few homes as they become available in the local housing market. However, as the 19th century came to a close and building methods focused on functionality over details, the style faded. But there are still plenty of Gothic Revival homes you can find in the housing market – you may just have to work a little harder to find one of these dreamy houses.

Futuristic Architecture – The Exciting World of Futuristic Design
The windows in Gothic Revival buildings are often tall, grand, and pointed, frequently incorporating stained glass that showcases religious narratives or vibrant designs. American Gothic architecture, predominantly seen in North America, is a unique architectural style that evolves from classic Gothic designs. This style is distinguished by its extensive use of wooden materials for both structural purposes and decorative elements, earning it the alternate name of Carpenter's Gothic architecture. Discover the history and features of Gothic architecture houses, from medieval castles to Victorian mansions. Cathedral Church of Milan, another example of gothic architecture, took around 600 years to complete, with the construction beginning in 1386 and lasted until the 19th century in 1865. The building work had to stall during the Second World War because of the allied bombing of Milan and lack of funds, and it was finally completed in 1965.
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While Art Deco buildings dominate public perceptions of Miami’s architecture, there’s so much more to Miami than the pastel-hued gems ... This is the tallest cathedral in France and another example of Gothic architecture built between the years 1220 and 1270, but minor works continue till the year 1288. Construction on the Canterbury Cathedral began in 1070, but it was later, during the 1170’s, before much of the church’s gothic characteristics were added. Much of the Florence Cathedral’s design is credited to Arnolfo di Cambio, who is recognized as one of Italy’s most famous architects and builders.
These windows could be placed in intricate geometric patterns and ornate stained-glass designs. Another noticeable feature of Gothic architecture is the use of spires and towers in their design. Their height created a dramatic appearance and served to be a highlight of the city’s skyline.
What Is Gothic Revival Architecture?
The flying buttress is a gothic architecture feature that defines the external characteristics and acts to spread the tall walls' weight. The architects' used the flying buttresses to support the building's structure by transferring the force to the ground. It was both a decorative and practical element of history and was elaborately designed. Some of the key elements of Gothic architecture—like large, stained glass windows and vaulted arches—allowed ample natural light into the structures, despite their massive size and height. This style dominated European architecture—especially structures built by the Roman Catholic church—until the 16th century, when it became known as Gothic architecture. Check out the sides of a Gothic building to see these architectural features in action.
Certain architectural elements that can be found in Gothic Cathedrals and other buildings of the Gothic style were already present in older buildings. Rib vaulting could, for example, be found in churches in England and Normandy. However, for buildings to be considered Gothic structures, they need to have certain defining architectural features and structural elements. These were the first Gothic structures to combine pointed arches, buttresses, and rib vaulting. Other influences that drove the construction of more Gothic structures were the rise in wealth and population numbers, resulting in churches and cathedrals needing to be built larger in order to accommodate the influx of pilgrims. The Romanesque buildings were proving too small for the ever-growing populace.
Thus Gothic Revival style houses and their romantic details gained in popularity. The early 19th century highlighted the Victorian age, when many landscape designs used bedding plants placed in complex patterns. They were a display of status and wealth, especially in gardens that featured exotic plants. Inspired by the Romantic movement, romantic and picturesque gardens emphasized the beauty of nature over formal structure, creating Arcadian-type landscapes.
The Amiens Cathedral is one of the most distinct gothic-style churches in the world and it is also among the most famous historic sites in northern France. London, England is filled with a variety of historical structures in and around the city, but Westminster Abbey is arguably the most famous building in England’s capital city. Construction began on the structure that is the Reims Cathedral today in 1211 A.D. However, the massive cathedral was built on the site of an already-existing church that is believed to date back to the 5th century A.D. Much of the cathedral’s interior has been cleaned in recent years, which gives it a much more stunning appearance to those within its walls. Chartres Cathedral is very often considered to be the pinnacle of gothic architectural achievement.

Gargoyles have two purposes, and one was to drain off rainwater off the roof, gushing through their mouth then plummeting to the ground. Another purpose was to strike fear in the ill-educated peasants and scare them into the gothic cathedral or church. A beautiful example of the High Gothic, the current iteration of Reims Cathedral was built when a fire destroyed the early Gothic structure. The west façade has incredibly deep portals that allow for a complex sculptural program. This sculpture would have allowed illiterate churchgoers to visually see what they were unable to read.
The cathedral has witnessed several tank battles and bomb hits, and it has been ongoing repair since after the war to date. Gothic architecture, a pan-European style, came about between the mid 12th century and the 16th century and is characterized mainly by masonry building style that uses cavernous spaces and walls broken by overlaid tracery. The Gothic style and architecture are rooted in French architecture, but you can also find it in Europe and other continents.
The main differences between Gothic architecture and Gothic Revival architecture are the periods in which they were built and the materials and building methods available. So, this style is technically a Victorian home with romantic Gothic Revival details. A kind of rib vault was also used in Islamic architecture, for example in the ceiling of the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba.
According to Mark Lavender, a Chicago-area architect-turned-interior designer, Gothic-style homes (sometimes called Gothic-revival homes) are modeled after cathedrals built in Europe in the Middle Ages. While you likely won't see too many homes with flying buttresses, Gothic-style homes are typically constructed with stately stone facades and steep roof pitches (angles) that mimic their namesake architecture. Oftentimes, Lavender adds, Gothic-style homes include arch windows on the upper floors along with large chimneys or even actual towers to create a commanding, palatial look. The primary building material used in Gothic architecture is stone, including limestone, sandstone, and marble.
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