Gothic architecture is one of the well-known styles of architecture that began during the medieval Europe. The style itself first evolved from such architectural designs as that of the Romanesque. Then later, it took its inspiration from Renaissance architecture.

History and concepts

Gothic architecture first sprung during the 12^th century in France. At that time, it was still known as Opus Francigenum or literally translated as "the French Style". The style itself lasted well until the 16^th century.

The style itself was characterized with features such as a pointed arch, flying buttresses, and ribbed vaults. During the early years in Europe, it was the style used in building cathedrals, churches and abbeys. The concepts of the style present in Gothic architecture have been noted to show as if it were appealing to the emotions.

The beginning of Gothic architecture

The abbey of Saint-Denis in France has been the first completely constructed Gothic structure ever recorded. Built from 1140 to 1144, it has been the model for the other Gothic establishments as that of Chartres and Senlis.

Synagogues have also adopted the style for the Jews. The Old-New Synagogue in Prague was the oldest synagogue with the Gothic design. It was constructed in 1279 and has the distinct features present in Gothic buildings such as a steep roof and pointed arches.

The distinct features of Gothic architecture

In this style of architecture, it has been known for its features very distinguishable to that of other known styles. Below are the said features known to be of Gothic origin.

• pointed arches
• flying buttresses
• ribbed vaults
• stained glass windows
• gargoyles

Unlike the glass windows and the gargoyles, the other features were created not because as a matter of ornamentation. These were the different techniques that have been known to have brought building construction to a new level of innovation.

Victorian Gothic architecture

For about 400 years, the style of the Gothic architecture remained since it has been first established. From France, it spread all across England then onto the other parts of Europe, including Scandinavia and even in the East. But as the plague soon devastated half of the world, construction slowed down. At the end of the 1400s, other architectural styles replaced Gothic architecture.

However, the Gothic style was revived in the 19^th century. Builders from Europe, England and even in the United States used an eclectic Victorian style with Gothic architecture incorporated in it. This kind of design was even used in private homes as they were built with gargoyles, arched windows and pinnacles.