What Were The Origins Of The Gothic Architecture Style?

The Gothic architecture style began in the 12th century and persisted until the end of the 16th century. It is characterised by sweeping tall buildings with spires and intricately carved details on both the interior and exterior. The style evolved from the earlier Romanesque period, exaggerating the arches and decorative features of this style.

The Gothic style first appeared in France in the 12th century. The French abbot and historian Suger (1081-1151) is widely regarded as the most influential early patron of Gothic architecture, and its influence soon spread throughout Europe. He commissioned the reconstruction of the Basilica Church of St. Denis in Paris around 1137.

Suger extended the height and proportions, and added features such as vaulted ceilings, pointed arches, and flying buttresses. A key feature of the church was intricate and colourful stained glass windows. In a departure from the more stylised  mediaeval era, the artwork features more lifelike figures with more expressive poses and expressions.

This was thought to make the stories of the bible more understandable and accessible to the general public, and windows, vaults and niches were used to depict narrative scenes. Nature was also a major influence on the Gothic style, with intricate and realistic carvings of leaves, fruit, and flowers appearing in stonework and ornate plasterwork on walls and ceilings. 

The term ‘Gothic’ was first thought to have been used by the Italians in the 15th century to describe this form of architecture, and it was meant in a derogatory way. The Goths were a nomadic German people who had a reputation for barbarity and destruction, after the sacking of Rome in AD 410. 

The critics of the Gothic style found it to be ugly and ostentatious, lacking in any refinement or subtlety. Fortunately, many fine examples of the Gothic architectural style still exist in a well preserved condition today. Famous examples include the Notre Dame in Paris, Milan Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey. 

The imposing scale and soaring heights of the religious buildings in the Gothic style were intended to inspire awe in viewers, and bring them closer to God. The vast proportions and light filled spaces were designed for maximum impact, to show off the finely detailed artwork and carvings within and celebrate the beauty of religious devotion. 

The emergence of Gothic architecture coincided with the expansion of many of Europe’s great cities, and it has left a permanent influence on the cathedrals, churches, universities, libraries, grand houses, and other landmark buildings. Alongside architecture, the Gothic movement inspired painting, sculpture, and other forms of decorative arts.

By the 16th century, the Renaissance overtook the late Gothic style as the dominant influence in art and architecture. However, the style was revived again in the 19th century, when it was known as Neo Gothic, or Victorian Gothic. One of the most famous examples of this style is the Palace of Westminster in London, designed by the architect AWN Pugin.

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