Why does Spain have Gothic architecture?

The Gothic style started in Spain as a result of Central European influence in the twelfth century when late Romanesque alternated with few expressions of pure Gothic architecture. The High Gothic arrives with all its strength via the pilgrimage route, the Way of St. James, in the thirteenth century.



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Spain has a rich history in gothic cathedrals, and the gothic culture began in Spain. The cathedrals were built over time, and this article will list the main cathedrals built in Spain and describe the features of each one.

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While the signature Gothic style originated in France, the architectural movement spread across Europe, especially in Italy, Spain, Germany and Britain. Some of the best Gothic architecture examples can be seen in France, one of the earliest being the Basilica of Saint-Denis in Paris completed in 1144 CE.

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Gothic architecture throughout Europe is quite diverse in style, yet has three defining characteristics: rib vaults, pointed arches and flying buttresses. Many cathedrals in Spain were influenced by the French and contain Gothic elements. Three of the most famous are the cathedrals in Burgos, Leon and Seville.

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With a long and rich Christian history in Spain, there are cathedrals in every city demonstrating just how significant Christ was to the community and the monarchy. There are 91 Cathedrals in Spain that are protected by The National Programme of Cathedrals, which aims to protect and conserve the houses of worship.

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It first originated in 12th century France and continued up until the 16th century spreading across the continent. It evolved during the construction of great churches in the Paris region in a move to create greater height, light and volume in the city's buildings. The movement evolved from Romanesque architecture.

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Barcelona was founded as a Roman city during the Middle Ages, and the specific Gothic quarter has its roots in this original founding with Roman walls dating from that time period that are still standing today as part of the Barcelona Cathedral.

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Gothic Architecture The Gothic style followed Mudejar architecture and fused European and Romanesque techniques. Its common elements are pointed arches, stained glass windows, gargoyles, thin walls, vaulted ceilings, and clusters of thin columns. Gothic Spanish architecture is found throughout much of Spain.

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Basilica of Saint Denis, France Noted as the first Gothic cathedral (it was completed in 1144), this church holds the graves for all but three of the French monarchs.

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Basilica of Saint Denis - Facts The 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.

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