4.4 Ribbed vaults

Ribbed vaults revolutionized medieval architecture, allowing for taller, more spacious interiors in churches and cathedrals. This innovation emerged during the Romanesque and Gothic periods, evolving from earlier groin vault designs to create more flexible and structurally efficient ceiling systems.

The development of ribbed vaults led to key features of Gothic architecture, including pointed arches, larger windows, and flying buttresses. These elements worked together to create soaring, light-filled spaces that symbolized heavenly realms and inspired spiritual contemplation among worshippers.

Origins of ribbed vaults

• Ribbed vaults emerged as a key innovation in medieval architecture, particularly during the Romanesque and Gothic periods
• The development of ribbed vaults allowed for taller, more spacious interiors and greater flexibility in the design of church architecture
• The origins of ribbed vaults can be traced back to the experimentation and refinement of vaulting techniques in the 11th and 12th centuries

Romanesque groin vaults

Top images from around the web for Romanesque groin vaults

• 

  Inside Santissima Annunziata | Groin vaults inside the churc… | Flickr View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  File:Groin Vault.jpg - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Inside Santissima Annunziata | Groin vaults inside the churc… | Flickr View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  File:Groin Vault.jpg - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 2

Top images from around the web for Romanesque groin vaults

• 

  Inside Santissima Annunziata | Groin vaults inside the churc… | Flickr View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  File:Groin Vault.jpg - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Inside Santissima Annunziata | Groin vaults inside the churc… | Flickr View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  File:Groin Vault.jpg - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 2

• Romanesque architecture initially employed groin vaults, which were formed by the intersection of two barrel vaults at right angles
• Groin vaults created a square or rectangular bay with a cross-shaped pattern on the ceiling
• The weight of the vaults was concentrated at the four corners, requiring thick walls and small openings for support

Early Gothic experiments

• Gothic architects began to experiment with new vaulting techniques to overcome the limitations of groin vaults
• Early attempts included pointed arches and the addition of diagonal ribs to divide the vault into compartments
• These experiments aimed to reduce the weight and thrust of the vaults, allowing for taller and more open interiors

Influence of Abbot Suger

• Abbot Suger, the patron of the Abbey of Saint-Denis, played a crucial role in the development of Gothic architecture and ribbed vaults
• Suger's vision of creating a church filled with light and symbolizing heavenly Jerusalem led to architectural innovations
• The rebuilding of Saint-Denis under Suger's guidance (1140s) showcased early examples of ribbed vaults and pointed arches, setting the stage for the Gothic style

Structural components

• Ribbed vaults consist of several key structural elements that work together to create a stable and visually striking ceiling
• The primary components of a ribbed vault include pointed arches, diagonal ribs, transverse arches, and webbing between the ribs
• Understanding the function and interaction of these elements is essential to appreciating the engineering and aesthetics of ribbed vaults

Pointed arches

• Pointed arches, characterized by their upward-pointing apex, are a defining feature of Gothic architecture and ribbed vaults
• The use of pointed arches allows for taller and more slender openings compared to the semicircular arches used in Romanesque architecture
• Pointed arches distribute the weight and thrust of the vaults more efficiently, reducing the need for thick walls and allowing for larger windows

Diagonal ribs

• Diagonal ribs are the primary structural members of a ribbed vault, running diagonally from one corner of the bay to the opposite corner
• These ribs form the skeleton of the vault and carry the majority of the weight, transferring it to the supporting piers or columns
• The intersection of diagonal ribs at the center of the vault creates a visually prominent boss or keystone

Transverse arches

• Transverse arches span the width of the nave or aisle, separating one bay from another
• These arches provide additional support for the vault and help to define the individual bays
• Transverse arches often have a larger profile than diagonal ribs and may be decorated with moldings or carvings

Webbing between ribs

• The spaces between the diagonal ribs and transverse arches are filled with thin, curved masonry called webbing
• Webbing is typically made of lighter materials, such as small stones or bricks, to reduce the overall weight of the vault
• The webbing transfers the weight of the roofing material to the ribs and arches, which in turn carry the load to the supports

Advantages vs groin vaults

• Ribbed vaults offered several advantages over the earlier groin vaults, contributing to the development and popularity of Gothic architecture
• These advantages include lighter construction, flexibility in bay shapes, and the concentration of loads
• The benefits of ribbed vaults allowed for taller, more spacious interiors and the incorporation of larger windows, transforming the character of church architecture

Lighter construction

• Ribbed vaults require less masonry compared to groin vaults, as the ribs and webbing distribute the weight more efficiently
• The use of pointed arches and lighter webbing materials further reduces the overall weight of the vault
• Lighter construction allows for taller walls, more slender piers, and the inclusion of larger windows, enhancing the sense of verticality and openness

Flexibility in bay shapes

• Groin vaults are limited to square or rectangular bays, as they are formed by the intersection of two barrel vaults
• Ribbed vaults, on the other hand, can accommodate a variety of bay shapes, including rectangular, trapezoidal, and triangular forms
• This flexibility enables architects to adapt the vaulting to irregular floor plans and create more dynamic spatial configurations

Concentration of loads

• In ribbed vaults, the weight is concentrated along the diagonal ribs and transferred to the supporting piers or columns
• This concentration of loads reduces the lateral thrust on the walls, allowing for thinner walls and larger window openings
• The use of flying buttresses to counteract the remaining lateral thrust further enhances the structural stability and allows for even greater heights and wall openings

Variations and advancements

• As Gothic architecture evolved, ribbed vaults underwent various modifications and advancements to achieve greater complexity and visual impact
• These variations include quadripartite vaults, sexpartite vaults, tierceron vaults, and lierne vaults
• Each of these vault types builds upon the basic principles of ribbed vaulting while introducing new patterns and structural elements

Quadripartite vaults

• Quadripartite vaults are the most common and basic form of ribbed vaulting, consisting of four compartments divided by diagonal ribs
• The intersection of the diagonal ribs at the center of the vault creates a four-part division, hence the name "quadripartite"
• Quadripartite vaults were widely used in the naves and aisles of Gothic churches, providing a simple yet effective vaulting solution

Sexpartite vaults

• Sexpartite vaults are a variation of ribbed vaulting that divides the bay into six compartments instead of four
• In addition to the diagonal ribs, sexpartite vaults include a transverse rib that bisects the bay, creating a six-part division
• Sexpartite vaults were often used in alternating bays of the nave, with intermediate piers supporting the transverse rib

Tierceron vaults

• Tierceron vaults introduce additional ribs, called tiercerons, that spring from the same point as the diagonal ribs but do not reach the center of the vault
• These shorter ribs create a more complex pattern and visual richness, with multiple intersections and compartments
• Tierceron vaults allowed for greater flexibility in vault design and were often used in high-status spaces such as choir vaults or chapels

Lierne vaults

• Lierne vaults represent a further advancement in ribbed vaulting, featuring additional decorative ribs called liernes
• Liernes are short, non-structural ribs that connect the main ribs, creating intricate web-like patterns and star-shaped configurations
• The use of lierne vaults reached its height in the late Gothic period, showcasing the increasing sophistication and ornamentation of vaulting design

Aesthetic impact

• Ribbed vaults had a profound impact on the aesthetics of Gothic architecture, transforming the interior spaces of churches and cathedrals
• The aesthetic qualities of ribbed vaults include verticality and height, dematerialization of walls, increased window area, and the interplay of light
• These characteristics contribute to the sense of awe, transcendence, and spiritual uplift that define the Gothic architectural experience

Verticality and height

• Ribbed vaults, with their pointed arches and slender ribs, emphasize the vertical dimension of the interior space
• The upward thrust of the vaults draws the eye towards the heavens, creating a sense of soaring height and spiritual aspiration
• The verticality of ribbed vaults is further enhanced by the use of tall, narrow piers and the overall proportions of the building

Dematerialization of walls

• The structural efficiency of ribbed vaults allows for thinner walls and the inclusion of large window openings
• As a result, the walls appear to dissolve or dematerialize, blurring the boundaries between the interior and exterior
• The dematerialization of walls contributes to the ethereal and luminous quality of Gothic interiors, as light filters through the expansive windows

Increased window area

• Ribbed vaults enable the incorporation of larger and more numerous windows, as the weight of the vaults is concentrated on the ribs and piers
• The increased window area allows for an abundance of natural light to flood the interior, creating a bright and airy atmosphere
• The use of stained glass in these windows further enhances the aesthetic impact, with colored light casting a mystical and otherworldly ambiance

Interplay of light

• The combination of ribbed vaults, large windows, and stained glass creates a dynamic interplay of light within the interior space
• As the sun moves throughout the day, the patterns of light and shadow shift across the vaults and walls, animating the architecture
• The interplay of light and the resulting visual effects contribute to the sense of mystery, transcendence, and divine presence in Gothic churches

Symbolism and meaning

• Beyond their structural and aesthetic roles, ribbed vaults also carried symbolic and spiritual meanings in Gothic architecture
• The symbolism and meaning associated with ribbed vaults include the representation of heaven, divine geometry, and spiritual ascent
• These symbolic aspects reflect the religious and philosophical beliefs of the medieval period and the desire to create sacred spaces that inspire devotion and contemplation

Representation of heaven

• Ribbed vaults, with their soaring heights and luminous interiors, were seen as a representation of the heavenly realm
• The upward thrust of the vaults and the filtering of light through stained glass windows evoked a sense of celestial beauty and divine presence
• The symbolism of the vault as a metaphor for heaven reinforced the idea of the church as a sacred space, a gateway between the earthly and the divine

Divine geometry

• The geometric patterns and proportions of ribbed vaults were believed to embody divine order and harmony
• The use of the pointed arch, with its two converging lines, was associated with the Holy Trinity and the unity of God
• The intricate web of ribs and the resulting compartments were seen as a reflection of the complex and interconnected nature of divine creation

Spiritual ascent

• The vertical emphasis of ribbed vaults and the overall design of Gothic churches symbolized the spiritual ascent of the faithful
• The upward movement of the vaults, the tall piers, and the spires and pinnacles of the exterior all pointed towards the heavens
• This symbolism of ascent encouraged worshippers to lift their hearts and minds towards God, embarking on a spiritual journey from the earthly realm to the divine

Notable examples

• Throughout the Gothic period, numerous churches and cathedrals showcased the beauty and ingenuity of ribbed vaults
• Some of the most notable examples include Saint-Denis Abbey, Notre-Dame de Paris, Chartres Cathedral, and Reims Cathedral
• These edifices demonstrate the evolution and refinement of ribbed vaulting techniques, as well as their impact on the overall character of Gothic architecture

Saint-Denis Abbey

• The Abbey of Saint-Denis, located near Paris, is considered the birthplace of Gothic architecture
• Under the patronage of Abbot Suger, the abbey underwent significant renovations in the 12th century, introducing early examples of ribbed vaults and pointed arches
• The choir of Saint-Denis, with its innovative vaulting and increased window area, set the stage for the development of the Gothic style

Notre-Dame de Paris

• Notre-Dame de Paris, one of the most iconic Gothic cathedrals, features a masterful use of ribbed vaults throughout its interior
• The nave and aisles of Notre-Dame are covered with quadripartite vaults, creating a sense of uniformity and rhythmic progression
• The cathedral's vaults, along with its flying buttresses and large clerestory windows, contribute to its majestic and luminous atmosphere

Chartres Cathedral

• Chartres Cathedral, built in the 13th century, is renowned for its harmonious design and the beauty of its ribbed vaults
• The nave of Chartres features sexpartite vaults, with alternating piers supporting the transverse ribs
• The vaults of the ambulatory and radiating chapels showcase the flexibility and adaptability of ribbed vaulting to different spatial configurations

Reims Cathedral

• Reims Cathedral, the coronation site of French kings, displays the increasing complexity and ornamentation of ribbed vaults in the later Gothic period
• The cathedral's choir features intricate tierceron and lierne vaults, creating a rich visual tapestry overhead
• The vaults of Reims Cathedral demonstrate the evolution of ribbed vaulting towards greater decorative elaboration and technical virtuosity

Influence on Gothic architecture

• The development and widespread use of ribbed vaults had a profound influence on the course of Gothic architecture
• Ribbed vaults enabled several key characteristics of the Gothic style, including larger windows, the development of flying buttresses, regional variations, and a lasting legacy
• The impact of ribbed vaults extended beyond the structural realm, shaping the aesthetic, spatial, and experiential qualities of Gothic churches and cathedrals

Enabling larger windows

• Ribbed vaults, with their efficient load distribution and reduced lateral thrust, allowed for the inclusion of larger windows in Gothic churches
• The increased window area flooded the interior with natural light, transforming the atmosphere and character of the space
• The use of stained glass in these windows further enhanced the aesthetic impact, creating a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns that symbolized divine light and spiritual illumination

Development of flying buttresses

• As ribbed vaults enabled taller and more slender walls, the need arose for additional structural support to counteract the remaining lateral thrust
• Flying buttresses, external arched supports that transfer the thrust of the vaults to outer piers, were developed in response to this need
• The use of flying buttresses allowed for even greater heights and the inclusion of larger clerestory windows, further emphasizing the verticality and luminosity of Gothic interiors

Regional styles and variations

• As Gothic architecture spread throughout Europe, regional styles and variations emerged, adapting ribbed vaults to local traditions and preferences
• In England, for example, the development of fan vaults showcased a unique approach to vaulting, with radiating ribs that resemble an open fan
• In Germany and Central Europe, the use of intricate net and star vaults demonstrated the increasing complexity and virtuosity of vaulting techniques

Legacy in late Gothic

• The legacy of ribbed vaults extended well into the late Gothic period, with increasingly elaborate and ornamental vaulting designs
• Late Gothic styles, such as the Flamboyant in France and the Perpendicular in England, pushed the boundaries of vaulting complexity and visual richness
• The continued evolution of ribbed vaults in the late Gothic period showcased the enduring influence and adaptability of this architectural innovation