Gothic Cathedrals of Medieval Europe

Gothic cathedrals of medieval Europe

Gothic cathedrals are not the religious buildings of the ancient Goths, but rather cathedrals built in the Gothic architecture. Just as vandalism doesn't have anything to do with the Goths, it's a style of architecture that developed in France out of the Romanesque style in the 12th century and was simply known as the "French Style". Gothic architecture spread to all of Western Europe and continued to evolve until well into the 16th century, before being subsumed into Renaissance art. Only then it was called "Gothic", and not in a positive way as the Goths were considered rude and barbaric.

The Gothic style emphasizes verticality and light. This appearance was achieved by the development of certain architectural features such as the clustered columns, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. Although the architecture is used in many castles, palaces, and town halls, it is the magnificent cathedrals of Europe that really demonstrate the beauty of Gothic architecture.

10. St Stephen's Cathedral

Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom), situated at the heart of Vienna, has survived many wars and is now a symbol of the city’s freedom. The Gothic cathedral stands on the ruins of two earlier churches and was largely initiated by Rudolf IV, Duke of Austria, in the 14th century. Its most recognizable characteristic, the diamond-patterned tile roof, was only added in 1952.

9. Burgos Cathedral

The Burgos Cathedral is a medieval cathedral in Burgos, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is famous for its vast size and unique Gothic architecture. Construction of Burgos Cathedral began in 1221, and after a lengthy hiatus of almost 2 centuries, was completed in 1567. In 1919, the cathedral became the burial place of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar ("El Cid") and his wife Doña Jimena.

8. Reims Cathedral

Reims Cathedral was the church in which numerous French monarchs were officially crowned. It was built on the site of the basilica where Clovis was baptized by Saint Remi, bishop of Reims, in AD 496. The cathedral was completed by the end of the 13th century, with the west front added in the 14th century.

7. Milan Cathedral

An exceptionally large and elaborate Gothic cathedral on the main square of Milan, the Duomo di Milano is one of the most famous buildings in Europe. It is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Construction began in 1386 under Archbishop Antonio da.