Gothic architecture

:See also Gothic art.

Origins

The historical style itself originated at the abbey church of Saint-Denis in Saint-Denis, near Paris, where it exemplified the vision of Abbot Suger. Suger wanted to create a physical representation of the Heavenly Jerusalem, a building of a high degree of linearity that was suffused with light and color.

Related Topics:
Abbey church of Saint-Denis - Saint-Denis - Paris - Abbot Suger

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The first truly Gothic construction was the choir of the church, consecrated in 1144. With thin columns, stained-glass windows, and an overall sense of verticality and ethereality, the choir of Saint-Denis established the elements that would later be elaborated upon during the Gothic period.

Related Topics:
Choir - 1144

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This style was adopted first in northern France and by the English, and spread throughout France, the Low Countries and parts of Germany and also to Spain and northern Italy.

Related Topics:
France - English - Low Countries - Germany - Spain - Italy

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