butresses

Buttresses are architectural supports built to counteract the outward thrust of walls, arches, and vaults, particularly in large masonry structures like cathedrals. They are external, projecting elements that absorb the lateral forces, preventing the walls from collapsing. The most common type is the flying buttress, a distinctive feature of Gothic architecture. A flying buttress consists of an arched structure that extends from the upper part of a wall to a pier or buttress base located away from the building. This arrangement allows for the transfer of weight and thrust from the roof and upper walls down to the ground, enabling taller and thinner walls with larger window openings. Simple buttresses, also known as pier buttresses or pilasters, are vertical projections built directly against the wall. These are more common in earlier architectural styles like Romanesque. The design and placement of buttresses are crucial for the structural integrity of buildings, especially those with heavy stone roofs or expansive vaulted ceilings. They are a testament to the ingenuity of ancient and medieval engineers in overcoming the challenges of monumental construction.