In this view of the Sainte-Chapelle in Riom, France, you can see the broad masonry buttresses extending from the stone pillars to the main wall of the cathedral. The Sainte-Chapelle in Riom is modeled after Louis IX's palace chapel in Paris.
Gothic Architecture
By Jackie Craven, About.com
Gothic Detail: Flying Buttresses
Modeled after Louis IX's palace chapel in Paris, the Sainte-Chapelle in Riom, France is a masterwork of Gothic design.
Photo © Delius / iStockPhoto
In order to prevent the outward collapse of the arches, Gothic architects began using a revolutionary "flying buttress" system. Freestanding brick or stone supports were attached to the exterior walls by an arch or a half-arch.
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- Medieval Churches and Synagogues
- Jewish Gothic: Gothic Synagogues
- Gothic Detail: Pointed Arches
- Gothic Detail: Ribbed Vaulting
- Gothic Detail: Flying Buttresses
- Gothic Detail: Stained Glass Windows
- Gothic Detail: Gargoyles
- Gothic Floor Plans
- Cathedral Diagram: Gothic Engineering
- Gothic Revival: Victorian Gothic Styles
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