subject: A Neo- Gothic Getaway [print this page] When you think of gothic architecture, is it all dark stormy nights, lightning and a big castle? Well, if you visit some places around the world, youre not far off.
The origins of gothic architecture are a bit fuzzy; the pointed arches which characterise it are possibly from pre-Islamic routes, although similar structures also appeared elsewhere, such as Durham Cathedral around AD 1093. These arches were created in some places to create greater space, and are called vaults. And just to get even geekier, there are different names for the different arches, such as the depressed arch which doesnt have as deep a curve and the lancet arch with a wide base drawing into a point. The style was so popular in the nineteenth and twentieth century, that there was a revival, and neo-gothic architecture was created
Principally the style has been used on religious buildings and educational institutions, so its no surprise that the effect of the tall spires and arches have taken on dramatic and magical connotations. As such, a sighting of neo-gothic architecture is well worth a look during your next travels, and there is a lot around- if you know where to find it.
Here are a few examples to get you started
Tom Tower, Oxford- This bell tower in Oxford is a great example of neo-gothic architecture at its best. It rests over Tom Gate, the main entrance to Christ Church College, Oxford, and was designed by the architect Christopher Wren and built around 1681. But in this area you wont have to look too far to see stunning buildings; the area is full of beautiful Oxford colleges, quirky bookshops and cosy pubs. The perfect place for a gothic getaway
Gilbert Scott Building, University of Glasgow- This building was designed by George Gilbert Scott and opened around 1870, and the dramatic tower was added by J Oldrid Scott between 1887 and1891. This building looks beautiful when lit up at night. The university is the fourth oldest in the English speaking world, and so visiting these buildings really gives you a sense of tradition and the past. And there are also lots of other things to do in Glasgow, from museum and gallery trips to a shopping day followed by a restaurant meal.
Ste Clotilde church, Paris- This church, completed in 1857, is famous for its twin spires. Its grandeur sets this building apart, and it was named a minor basilica by Pope Leo XIII in 1896. Whilst this is a main attraction to see whilst visiting Saint-Germain-des-Pres, the area was also at the heart of the existentialist movement, and is home to famous cafes such as Les Deux Magots and the Caf de Flore, so you wont find it hard to locate literary and artistic references. For something a bit lighter, the rest of Paris is right on your doorstep from Ste Clotilde, so visit the Champs Elysees, the Eiffel Tower, or sit back and watch Parisian life from the comfort of a traditional restaurant
Parliament Hill, Canada- This set of buildings, often just called The Hill is the location of the Canadian parliament. The area is steeped in history, and before building started in 1859 it was the location of a military base. Peace Tower is a central point of the area. It looks a little like Big Ben, and was built in 1916 after its predecessor the Victoria Tower was destroyed in a fire. This is a magical area on top of a hill, and is well worth a visit.
These are just a few of the Gothic Revival buildings from around the world, and if this list has prompted some enthusiasm, maybe consider your next holiday in Oxford, Glasgow, Canada or Paris! Or for that matter, one of the many other areas of Neo-Gothic architecture such as Melbourne, Boston, Poland, Cyprus, and Brazilin terms of interesting architectural explorations, the choice is yours.
