Flying buttress

Definition

A flying buttress is an architectural element that consists of an arched structure built on the exterior of a building, designed to support and distribute the weight of the roof and walls. This innovative feature is closely associated with Gothic architecture, allowing for taller and more light-filled structures, while also symbolizing the growing relationship between church and state during the medieval period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flying buttresses allowed Gothic cathedrals to achieve greater heights compared to Romanesque buildings, contributing to the dramatic verticality characteristic of this style.
2. The use of flying buttresses enabled the incorporation of large stained glass windows, which filled churches with natural light and conveyed biblical stories visually to the congregants.
3. These structures not only served a functional purpose in supporting walls but also became decorative elements, often embellished with sculptures and carvings.
4. Flying buttresses are seen as a reflection of the growing power of the church during the Middle Ages, as these grand structures required significant resources and collaboration between church leaders and political authorities.
5. Notable examples of flying buttresses can be found in famous Gothic cathedrals such as Notre-Dame de Paris and Chartres Cathedral, which showcase their structural and aesthetic significance.

Review Questions

• How did flying buttresses contribute to the overall design and function of Gothic cathedrals?
  • Flying buttresses played a crucial role in the design of Gothic cathedrals by allowing for taller walls and larger windows. They distributed the weight of the roof away from the walls, which enabled builders to create structures that reached impressive heights. This architectural innovation facilitated more light-filled interiors through expansive stained glass windows, enhancing the spiritual experience for congregants.
• In what ways did flying buttresses symbolize the relationship between church authority and political power during the medieval period?
  • Flying buttresses symbolize the relationship between church authority and political power as they represented both architectural innovation and the resources needed for such grand projects. The construction of these elaborate structures required cooperation between church leaders and local rulers, reflecting a time when the church held significant sway over civic matters. The grandeur of Gothic cathedrals served not just religious functions but also showcased the political power and ambition of both ecclesiastical and secular leaders.
• Evaluate the impact of flying buttresses on both architectural practices and religious expression during the transition from Romanesque to Gothic styles.
  • Flying buttresses significantly impacted architectural practices by allowing for greater structural innovation and complexity in Gothic buildings. This transition from Romanesque to Gothic styles marked a shift toward verticality, lightness, and intricate designs that emphasized divine presence. Additionally, flying buttresses facilitated a new way of religious expression by enabling larger congregational spaces filled with light from stained glass windows, creating an environment that encouraged spiritual reflection and connection with divine narratives. Thus, they played a vital role in both aesthetic advancement and deepening religious experience.

Related terms

Gothic architecture: A style of architecture that emerged in the 12th century and lasted into the 16th century, characterized by features such as pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, which allowed for greater height and light in cathedrals.

Cathedral: A large and significant church that serves as the central place of worship for a diocese, often featuring elaborate architectural designs and serving as a symbol of religious authority.

Ribbed vault: An architectural feature in Gothic buildings consisting of intersecting arches that create a framework for the ceiling, which helps to support the weight of the structure and allows for more complex designs.