Flying Buttresses in Gothic Architecture

What are flying buttresses?

Trusses that carry other trusses or support a large area of roof framing are called ________.

Answer:

Flying buttresses are trusses that support a large area of roof framing and are commonly used in Gothic architecture.

Flying buttresses are architectural features commonly used in Gothic architecture to support the weight loads of roofs and upper stories. These structures are designed to transfer the weight and prevent the walls from collapsing under the heavy loads. Flying buttresses are typically made of stone arches that extend from the upper part of a wall to a pier or a buttress that supports them.

One of the most famous examples of flying buttresses can be seen in the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The flying buttresses of Notre Dame are not only functional but also add a decorative element to the overall design of the cathedral.

By incorporating flying buttresses into their designs, Gothic architects were able to create taller and more open spaces inside their buildings. This architectural innovation allowed for the construction of grand cathedrals with expansive interiors filled with natural light, as seen in iconic structures like Chartres Cathedral in France.