Term
Gothic Architecture
A 12th-century architectural style characterized by groin vaults and diagonal ribs, later named by Renaissance humanists to imply nonclassical, barbarian origins.
Filed underChurch History
Definition
The architectural style developed during the middle of the 12th century when the groin vault, formed by two equal tunnel vaults intersecting to form a diagonal cross, was augmented by diagonal ribs. The term 'Gothic' was applied by Renaissance humanists to architectural styles that were nonclassical and therefore barbarian in origin.
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Sources
- 1.Jerald C. Brauer and B. A. Gerrish, ed. The Westminster Dictionary of Church History. (Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1971). 55Original citation: Brauer, Jerald C., and B. A. Gerrish, eds. The Westminster Dictionary of Church History. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1971, 55.
Last revised August 14, 2026