Flying buttress

Definition

A flying buttress is an architectural element that consists of a half-arch that extends from the upper portion of a wall to a separate support structure, transferring the weight and thrust of the roof and vaults away from the walls. This innovation allows for taller structures and larger windows, enabling the intricate designs and luminous stained glass that characterize certain styles of cathedrals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flying buttresses became prominent in Gothic architecture during the 12th century, allowing builders to create larger and more intricate cathedrals.
2. They help distribute the weight of the roof and vaults, counteracting the lateral forces that would otherwise cause walls to collapse.
3. The design of flying buttresses often includes decorative elements like pinnacles and carvings, enhancing both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
4. Flying buttresses were instrumental in enabling the construction of massive stained glass windows, which became iconic features of Gothic cathedrals.
5. Notable examples of flying buttresses can be seen in famous cathedrals such as Notre-Dame de Paris and Chartres Cathedral.

Review Questions

• How do flying buttresses contribute to the overall structural integrity of Gothic cathedrals?
  • Flying buttresses play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of Gothic cathedrals by transferring the weight and lateral thrust generated by roofs and vaults to external supports. This allows walls to be built taller and thinner, reducing the risk of collapse while enabling large windows. As a result, these cathedrals can support intricate designs and spacious interiors that are characteristic of the Gothic style.
• Discuss the aesthetic impact that flying buttresses had on Gothic cathedrals and how they influenced design choices.
  • Flying buttresses not only provided structural support but also contributed to the aesthetic grandeur of Gothic cathedrals. Their design often included ornate details like pinnacles and tracery, creating an impression of upward movement and lightness. The combination of flying buttresses with large stained glass windows resulted in breathtaking interiors filled with natural light, influencing architects to push boundaries in their design choices, which further defined the Gothic architectural style.
• Evaluate how the innovation of flying buttresses transformed architectural practices during the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture.
  • The introduction of flying buttresses marked a significant shift in architectural practices as structures transitioned from Romanesque to Gothic styles. This innovation allowed architects to overcome limitations faced by thick walls required in Romanesque buildings. With flying buttresses, architects could explore verticality and open spaces while enhancing light penetration through larger windows. This transformation not only changed how buildings were designed but also redefined cultural expressions through architecture, making cathedrals symbols of both faith and artistry during this era.

Related terms

Gothic architecture: A style of architecture that originated in 12th-century France and is characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, which allowed for taller structures and more light.

Ribbed vault: A framework of intersecting stone ribs that supports a vaulted ceiling, allowing for greater structural strength and the creation of complex ceiling patterns.

Clerestory: The upper part of a church wall that contains windows, typically situated above eye level to allow light to penetrate the interior while also being supported by flying buttresses.