Flying Buttress

Definition

A flying buttress is an architectural feature that transfers the lateral forces of a vaulted ceiling or roof away from the structure, typically found in Gothic cathedrals. This innovation allowed builders to construct taller walls with large windows, enhancing both the structural integrity and the aesthetic qualities of Gothic architecture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flying buttresses first emerged in the late 12th century as a solution to the structural challenges faced by builders during the Gothic period.
2. These supports allowed for thinner walls and larger stained-glass windows, transforming the visual and emotional experience within Gothic cathedrals.
3. They are often seen on the exterior of cathedrals, creating an iconic silhouette that defines many Gothic structures.
4. The design of flying buttresses helped to stabilize the weight of heavy vaulted ceilings and distribute forces more effectively.
5. Notable examples of flying buttresses can be found in famous cathedrals such as Notre-Dame de Paris and Chartres Cathedral.

Review Questions

• How do flying buttresses contribute to the overall structural integrity and aesthetics of Gothic cathedrals?
  • Flying buttresses play a crucial role in Gothic architecture by redistributing the lateral forces exerted on vaulted ceilings, allowing for taller structures with thinner walls. This not only enhances the stability of the buildings but also permits the incorporation of large stained-glass windows, which flood the interior with natural light. As a result, the use of flying buttresses transforms both the appearance and spiritual atmosphere within these magnificent spaces.
• Compare and contrast the use of flying buttresses in Chartres Cathedral versus Reims Cathedral. What impact did their designs have on each building's overall architectural style?
  • Chartres Cathedral features prominent flying buttresses that are essential to its structure, enabling high walls and extensive stained-glass windows. In contrast, Reims Cathedral employs a more integrated approach where flying buttresses are less visually pronounced, contributing to a different aesthetic experience. The use of flying buttresses in Chartres accentuates its verticality and openness, while Reims emphasizes its grandeur through ornate detailing and overall height.
• Evaluate how the introduction of flying buttresses marked a significant transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture, considering its effects on construction techniques and artistic expression.
  • The introduction of flying buttresses represented a major shift from Romanesque to Gothic architecture by allowing architects to push structural boundaries further than ever before. Unlike Romanesque buildings, which relied on thick walls and small windows for support, flying buttresses facilitated soaring heights and expansive window spaces filled with intricate stained glass. This transition not only changed construction techniques but also transformed artistic expression within churches, as larger windows enabled more elaborate narratives through light and color, enhancing the spiritual experience for worshippers.

Related terms

Vault: An arched structure that forms the ceiling or roof of a building, often used in Gothic architecture to create expansive, open interior spaces.

Pointed Arch: An architectural design that consists of an arch with a pointed top, crucial for distributing weight and allowing for taller structures.

Clerestory: The upper part of a wall that contains windows above eye level, often used in Gothic cathedrals to illuminate the interior with natural light.