Notre Dame Cathedral and its dramatic buttressing are the hallmarks of Gothic architecture. Unfortunately, due to the tragic fire in 2019, the cathedral will remain closed for a few years while undergoing repairs. However, you can still see the interior of Notre Dame and many more medieval cathedrals thanks to this special project by Columbia University. Travel inside the structure to see the Lux Nova of its stained-glass windows and its most famous reliquary, The Virgin of Paris. Or, become familiar with reading parts of the Gothic church plan by viewing this animated plan of Notre Dame de Paris.

Module 12 follows the transition from the Romanesque period to the Gothic period.  The regions remain the same- France, England, Spain, Italy, and Germany. The Gothic era first emerged at approximately 1150 until the 16th century.  The term “Gothic” was an originally given as derogatory commentary on its opulence and extravagant style as it was equated to the Goths who were blamed for destroying the Roman Empire and thus the classical style seen mimicked in the Romanesque period.  Let's think about the Romanesque and Gothic together: coupled together, these two periods laid the groundwork for the 14th-16th century Renaissance era and were arguably influential and formative for the emergence of the modern human experience.

Visit the site of Great Britain's tallest spire and home to one of the Magna Carta sealed in 1215. Salisbury Cathedral is an excellent example of the English Gothic style since its architectural focus differs from the traditional French Gothic as it highlights horizontality instead of verticality.

Amiens Cathedral embodies the Gothic notion of "Soaring Heights". Work began in 1220 and the cathedral stands at 144 feet above the floor. It's vaulted ceiling creates a heavenly canopy for its visitors and pilgrims. View this beautiful panoramas of the cathedral.

Reims Cathedral is another perfect example of Gothic architecture. It was highly influenced by Amiens Cathedral yet has a noticeable distinction of the kings' gallery above the rose window. Additionally, the architects made the structural details more elaborate and intricate.