Compare Gothic Architecture to Greek Architecture

Cathedrals are often built in a Gothic style.

Gothic architecture was a style that flourished in the Medieval period, originating in France and continuing until the 16th century. Greek architecture is much older and can be traced back to the 7th century BC. Despite the differences in the time periods, there is some similarities between the two styles.

Places of Worship

Both Greek and Gothic architectural styles were often utilized in designing places of worship. Gothic architecture was most commonly found in cathedrals of England and Western Europe, while Greek architecture was common in temple design.

Columns

Stone supportive columns are common to both Greek and Gothic architectural styles. The Gothic style used columns and arches to emphasize vertical height and allow light into the building; the Greek columns and buildings were proportioned according to mathematical ideals of harmony, including the golden mean.

Environment

Because of the differences in regional climate between Greece and northern Europe, there are architectural differences between the Greek and Gothic architectural styles that relate to weather. In Greece, with its warm climate, architecture favored open spaces and buildings that were at least partly open to the elements. In the colder climate of northern Europe, the Gothic style necessitated closed windows--often of heavy stained glass--and small exterior doorways that could be closed against the cold.

References

• Gothic Architecture in Britain
• Greek Architecture