Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Perpendicular Gothic Definition

History and Architecture

Perpendicular Gothic

The final phase of Gothic architecture, the Perpendicular phase spanned the late 14th century to the early 16th century, and slots between the Decorated Gothic and the Tudor periods of architecture. For more details on the Perpendicular period, see our English Architecture article.

Perpendicular style is characterised by:

  • Strong vertical lines
  • Very large windows with elaborate tracery
  • Fan vaulting
  • Hammerbeam roofs
Some of the best examples of Perpendicular style include Bath Abbey, Kings College Chapel in Cambridge, and the nave of Winchester Cathedral.

Related: Chapel   Nave   Gothic   Vaulting   Tracery   Fan Vaulting  




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