The Basilica of Saint Denis is an architectural landmark, the first major structure of which a substantial part was designed and built in the Gothic style . Both stylistically and structurally, it heralded the change from Romanesque architecture to Gothic architecture .
What is the significance of Chartres Cathedral?
Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral, located in the Centre-Val-de-Loire region, is one of the most authentic and complete works of religious architecture of the early 13th century. It was the destination of a pilgrimage dedicated to the Virgin Mary , among the most popular in all medieval Western Christianity.
What was the significance of light in Gothic cathedrals?
For Suger, and other like-minded medieval theologians, light itself was divine and could be used to elevate human consciousness from an earthly realm to a heavenly one . Suger, and those who came after him, attempted to flood their cathedrals and abbeys with light, building taller and more elegant structures.
What prompted the rebuilding of Saint Denis and why was Saint Denis significant?
The desire of many aristocrats to be buried close to Saint Denis led to the expansion of the basilica in the 6th and 7th centuries. In the 8th century, on the occasion of his coronation, Pepin the Short decided to rebuild the building in the manner of a Roman basilica.
What are the fundamental attributes of Gothic architecture as evidenced in the Abbey of Saint Denis and Chartres Cathedral?
Its characteristic features include the pointed arch, the ribbed vault and the flying buttress . What Romans called Gothic at the time (early), thought Gothic was barbaric.
Why does Chartres Cathedral have 2 different towers?
The two towers were built at different times, during the Gothic period, and have different heights and decoration . The north tower was begun in 1134, to replace a Romanesque tower that was damaged by fire. It was completed in 1150 and originally was just two stories high, with a lead-covered roof.
What makes the Chartres Cathedral unique?
Generally ranked as one of the three chief examples of Gothic French architecture (along with Amiens Cathedral and Reims Cathedral), it is noted not only for its architectural innovations but also for its numerous sculptures and its much-celebrated stained glass .
What do Gothic cathedrals represent?
Thus, the church building was a reflection of perfection and divine unity that people should turn to in their spiritual pursuits. For centuries, it had been traditional to build large churches in the shape of a Christian cross , and Gothic architecture continued that trend.
What was distinctive about Gothic cathedrals quizlet?
A pointed arch having two centers and radii equal to the span . late Gothic architecture took form in a style twisted flamelike elaborate complex playful. ... This type of arch, when employed as a window opening, lends itself to very wide spaces, provided it is adequately supported by many narrow vertical shafts.
What was Gothic art influenced by?
The architecture that informed the Gothic period drew upon a number of influences, including Romanesque, Byzantine, and Middle Eastern .
Does St Denis have flying buttresses?
In Saint-Denis, the geniality of Gothic architecture can be well observed: the ribbed vaulting and flying buttresses take on the weight of the roof , hence freeing wall-space for larger window bays. ... Today only one is filled with stained-glass windows.
Why is the Abbey Church of St Denis considered to be truly Gothic in style?
Why is the Abbey Church of Saint-Denis considered to be truly Gothic in style? The new choir, composed of exceptional stained glass windows and liturgical ornamentation .
Who was the man who conceived the new Gothic style at St Denis?
5. Who was the man who conceived the new Gothic style at St. Denis? A) William the Conqueror .
What are the 5 elements of Gothic cathedral architecture?
While the Gothic style can vary according to location, age, and type of building, it is often characterized by 5 key architectural elements: large stained glass windows, pointed arches, ribbed vaults, flying buttresses, and ornate decoration .
What are the three basic elements of the Gothic style?
The pointed arch, rib vault and flying buttress are three of the main features of Gothic architecture.
Why do Gothic cathedrals have pointed arches?
Gothic cathedrals like Notre Dame were tall and spacious, defined by the extraordinary amount of light that permeated through massive stained-glass windows contained within pointed arches. This towering architecture was meant to symbolize humanity reaching toward God , and pointed arches made it possible.
