Geometry Reims cathedral

Seven Secrets Shaping Gothic Geometry: How Cathedrals Were Built

Gothic cathedrals are marvels of medieval engineering. Behind their awe-inspiring facades lies a hidden secret: geometry. Medieval builders used complex mathematical principles, marking a significant departure from Romanesque architecture. In this article, we explore the seven secrets shaping Gothic geometry and how these factors contributed to the construction of these magnificent cathedrals.

Beauvais Cathedral - choir

The Origins of Gothic Geometric Knowledge

The transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture in the 12th century represented a quantum leap in building techniques. While Romanesque builders relied primarily on massive walls for structural support, Gothic architects employed a sophisticated understanding of geometry to create soaring, light-filled spaces. This shift didn’t occur in isolation but resulted from a convergence of factors:

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