Examples of Gothic Architecture in Europe

Gothic architecture is characterized by the use of beautiful stone and intricate ornamentation to enhance a building’s architecture. Gothic buildings feature ornately decorated facades that are tall and impressive. They are also notable for having flying buttresses, which are stone braces used to support the weight of the ceiling.

St. Denis

Saint Denis, one of the most important monuments of French Gothic architecture, is an impressive example of Gothic architecture. It was built by a French noblewoman, Saint Genevieve, who was very attached to the city. Her building was roughly twenty metres long and nine metres wide, and it still bears the foundation walls of the original structure. The basilica was further enlarged in the sixth and seventh centuries by aristocrats, who wanted to be buried near their churches.

Chartres Cathedral

One of the most famous examples of gothic architecture is Chartres cathedral. It was built in the thirteenth century to be a pilgrimage site. The thirteenth century additions include a stone labyrinth, which was a popular feature of pilgrimage churches at the time. The labyrinth at Chartres was nine hundred and sixty five feet long.

Chartres Abbey

The Gothic architecture of Chartres Abbey is well known for its stained glass and its impressive statues and paintings of the 12th and 13th centuries. The stained glass and the paintings of Chartres are among the best preserved examples of Gothic art. The cathedral is also known for its magnificent choir and vaults.

Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is a spectacular example of Gothic architecture and German Catholicism. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Cologne, and it is a World Heritage Site.

Strasbourg Cathedral

The Gothic architecture at Strasbourg Cathedral is one of the oldest structures in Europe. The Gothic style is characterized by a variety of features. Its facade is reminiscent of a picture book, with its intricate sculptures and dramatic light and shadow effects. The pink sandstone used for the construction of the cathedral’s walls changes colour with the light of the sky. The light effects, especially during the summer evening, are quite magical.

Basilica of St. Denis

The basilica in Saint-Denis, France, is an example of Gothic architecture. It was originally a Benedictine abbey church. The new architectural style introduced by Abbot Suger in the 12th century merged Burgundian and Norman elements. The style was first known as Opus Francigenum, but became known as Gothic architecture during the Renaissance. The choir was completed in 1144, and Suger later added the western facade.

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, also known as the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter at Westminster, is a large Gothic abbey church in the City of Westminster, London, England. It is located just west of the Palace of Westminster.