question archive The Gothic cathedral evolved to serve the interests of late Medieval builders and theologian's interest in creating heaven on earth -- an impressive open space filled with colored light, like jewels, that soared so high as if to touch heaven
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The Gothic cathedral evolved to serve the interests of late Medieval builders and theologian's interest in creating heaven on earth -- an impressive open space filled with colored light, like jewels, that soared so high as if to touch heaven. To achieve this, builders had to come up with ways to open up the massive stone walls and dark interiors that had characterized Romanesque churches. How they went about doing this?
Describe 3 innovations that enabled the Gothic builders to achieve their goal -- making heaven on earth.
Step-by-step explanation
Pointed arches proved to be more stable than rounded arches. This gave way for slimmer but taller columns which opened up the churches more. This feature also made it possible to have larger windows, which in turn, meant more opportunity for larger windows with intricate stain designs. Light can penetrate more into the interior of the building. Rib vaulting also provided more structural support, same as the pointed arches, that allowed higher ceilings and gave the feeling of grandeur and draws the eyes of the occupants upwards. Flying buttresses were used as support for thinner walls, which gave the churches a more airy environment. These combined elements contributed to allow the design of Gothic churches to be towering and seemingly extending high into the skies.