Gothic Ribbed Vaults

Romanesque vs. Gothic

Romanesque= semicircular archesGothic= pointed arches

Depending on which style of arch is used, height of the vault as well as the transverse arches can differ

Light and Height

• Goals of Gothic cathedral architecture= light from outside entering the nave, the airy feel/reaching towards the heavens, and an uninterrupted nave

Sainte Chapelle

Possibilities