The Basilica Church of Saint-Denis is regarded as the first truly Gothic building, and marks the styles evolution out of Romanesque. He created a pointed arch, ribbed vault and flying buttresses that supported the large clerestory windows.
Notre-Dame de Paris is the cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Paris, located on the Île de la Cité. It is widely regarded as one of the finest monuments of Gothic French architecture. Its sculptures and stained glass contrast with the Romanesque style.
Basilica of Saint Denis - FactsThe Basilica is considered the birthplace of Gothic architecture, as it was one of the first buildings to incorporate significant Gothic elements. It is the final resting place of French kings and queens, including famous figures such as Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.
Notre Dame, ParisOne of the most famous of the Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages, the Notre Dame of Paris, France is distinguished for its size, antiquity, and architectural interest. It was consecrated to the Virgin Mary, with its name meaning Our Lady of Paris.
One of the best and most celebrated Gothic buildings in the world is the Cologne Cathedral. The construction of this masterpiece took over 600 years to complete, but many would agree that it was well worth the wait!
A pointed arch, ogival arch, or Gothic arch is an arch with a pointed crown, whose two curving sides meet at a relatively sharp angle at the top of the arch. This architectural element was particularly important in Gothic architecture. The earliest use of a pointed arch dates back to bronze-age Nippur.