← Explore on the interactive map

Early Gothic Architecture

Type Object Region Europe Time c. 1140–1300

Early Gothic architecture is a Christian church style that arose in the Île-de-France in the mid-12th century, characterized by pointed arches, ribbe…

Timeline

  1. c. 1140–1144Saint-Denis · Île-de-FranceThe abbey church of Saint-Denis was rebuilt under Abbot Suger, systematically combining pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and stained glass windows, regarded as the exemplary starting point of mature early Gothic.
  2. c. 1194–1220Chartres · Centre-Val de LoireAfter a fire, the large-scale rebuilding of Chartres Cathedral completed its west façade and main body; flying buttresses and triple window tracery established the classic proportions and light effects of early Gothic, influencing subsequent French cathedral construction.
  3. c. 1221–1230Reims · Grand EstThe west façade and interior nave of Reims Cathedral continued to advance in the 1220s; early Gothic elements spread to Champagne and the Rhineland, closely tied to coronation ritual space of royal power.

Sources