Flying buttress

Definition

A flying buttress is an architectural structure that extends from the upper part of a wall to a detached pier, allowing for greater support and stability for large buildings, especially cathedrals. This innovation was crucial in enabling the construction of taller and more complex structures by transferring the weight of the roof and walls away from the main structure, thus allowing for larger windows and more light inside. The use of flying buttresses is one of the key features that distinguish Gothic architecture from earlier styles, emphasizing verticality and openness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flying buttresses were first used in the mid-12th century and became prominent in Gothic architecture by the 13th century, significantly changing how churches were built.
2. They allowed architects to design larger windows, such as rose windows, which contributed to the ethereal light often found in Gothic cathedrals.
3. Flying buttresses distribute the weight of the roof outward, reducing the pressure on the walls and allowing them to be built higher without collapsing.
4. The aesthetic quality of flying buttresses became a signature element of Gothic cathedrals, adding to their majestic appearance while serving an essential structural function.
5. Notable examples of flying buttresses can be seen in famous Gothic structures like Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris and Chartres Cathedral.

Review Questions

• How do flying buttresses enhance the structural integrity of Gothic cathedrals compared to earlier architectural styles?
  • Flying buttresses provide critical support by redirecting the weight of heavy roofs and walls outward to piers outside the main structure. This innovation allowed for much taller buildings compared to Romanesque architecture, which relied heavily on thick walls for support. The use of flying buttresses not only improved structural integrity but also enabled architects to incorporate larger windows and intricate designs that characterize Gothic cathedrals.
• Discuss how the introduction of flying buttresses influenced the overall design and aesthetic features of Gothic architecture.
  • The introduction of flying buttresses had a profound impact on the design and aesthetics of Gothic architecture. By enabling higher ceilings and expansive stained glass windows, architects could create luminous interiors filled with natural light. This emphasis on verticality and openness contrasted with the heavier, more solid structures of earlier styles. As a result, Gothic cathedrals became known for their breathtaking beauty and intricate designs that celebrated light and space.
• Evaluate the role of flying buttresses in shaping not only architectural practices but also cultural expressions during the Gothic period.
  • Flying buttresses played a pivotal role in shaping architectural practices during the Gothic period by allowing for innovative designs that prioritized height, light, and ornamentation. This structural advancement reflected broader cultural aspirations towards spirituality and divine beauty as cathedrals became symbols of faith and community pride. As towns invested in grand cathedrals featuring flying buttresses, they fostered civic identity and demonstrated their devotion to God, encapsulating the interconnection between architecture, culture, and society in this transformative era.

Related terms

arcade: A series of arches supported by columns or piers, commonly used in Romanesque and Gothic architecture to create a visually appealing row of arches.

gargoyle: A carved stone creature, often depicting grotesque figures, that serves both decorative and functional purposes by directing rainwater away from the sides of a building.

ribbed vault:

An architectural feature in which intersecting arches form a framework that supports a ceiling or roof, allowing for a more complex and visually striking interior space.