Ribbed vault

Definition

A ribbed vault is an architectural feature that consists of intersecting arches, creating a framework of ribs that support a vaulted ceiling. This design not only adds strength and stability to the structure but also allows for the incorporation of decorative elements and a greater variety of shapes in the ceiling. Ribbed vaults were particularly significant in medieval architecture as they facilitated the construction of larger and more intricate buildings, such as cathedrals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ribbed vaults first became prominent during the Romanesque period and evolved into a hallmark of Gothic architecture.
2. The ribs in ribbed vaults help to distribute weight more evenly, enabling the construction of thinner walls and larger windows.
3. Ribbed vaults often featured decorative elements, such as bosses or keystones at the intersections of the ribs, enhancing the visual appeal of the ceilings.
4. This architectural innovation allowed for greater heights and more elaborate designs in churches and cathedrals, contributing to their awe-inspiring presence.
5. Notable examples of ribbed vaults can be seen in famous Gothic cathedrals, such as Notre-Dame de Paris and Chartres Cathedral.

Review Questions

• How did ribbed vaults contribute to the structural integrity and design of medieval buildings?
  • Ribbed vaults enhanced the structural integrity of medieval buildings by distributing weight more evenly across the ribs, which allowed for thinner walls and larger windows. This design innovation made it possible for architects to create soaring ceilings and grand spaces within cathedrals. Additionally, the ribs provided a framework that supported intricate decorative elements, making these buildings not only stronger but also more visually striking.
• Discuss the differences between ribbed vaults and barrel vaults, highlighting their respective advantages in medieval architecture.
  • Ribbed vaults differ from barrel vaults in that they consist of intersecting arches forming a framework with ribs that support the ceiling. While barrel vaults create a continuous arch resembling a half-cylinder, ribbed vaults allow for more complex designs and greater flexibility in construction. The advantages of ribbed vaults include better weight distribution, which enables taller structures with larger openings for windows, thus increasing natural light within churches and cathedrals.
• Evaluate the impact of ribbed vaults on the development of Gothic architecture and their role in shaping medieval cathedrals.
  • Ribbed vaults played a crucial role in the development of Gothic architecture by allowing for unprecedented heights and elaborate designs that defined this style. Their introduction enabled architects to push boundaries in terms of verticality and light, leading to structures that were both majestic and ethereal. The use of ribbed vaults facilitated innovations like flying buttresses, which further supported tall walls adorned with stained glass windows. Together, these elements transformed medieval cathedrals into masterpieces that conveyed spiritual significance while showcasing artistic creativity.

Related terms

Gothic architecture: A style of architecture that emerged in the 12th century, characterized by features such as pointed arches, flying buttresses, and ribbed vaults, allowing for taller and more light-filled structures.

Barrel vault: An architectural element formed by the extrusion of a single curve along a given distance, resembling a half-cylinder; it is less complex than a ribbed vault.

Flying buttress: An architectural feature that supports a wall by transferring the weight of the roof to an external support, allowing for higher walls and larger windows in Gothic structures.