Gothic Brick Architecture

Gothic Brick Architecture

Brick was used as a building material in many parts of medieval Europe, but in Northern Germany it gave rise to the distinctive style of Backsteingotik (brick Gothic). Brick technology was introduced in the mid-12th century by Norbertine monks arriving from Lombardy. The style is characterized by a rich variety of vaults, the use of buttresses instead of supporting arches, and colourful designs achieved by using glazed bricks. Through trade and the activities of religious orders these forms spread throughout the Baltic region.

MARIENKIRCHE IN LÜBECK

Considered the crowning achievement of Backsteingotik, this church, built from around 1260, became the model for countless others, including the cathedral in Schwerin. It is a triple-naved basilica, with a twin-towered facade, braced with buttresses.

The eastern facade of many churches, such as the Marienkirche in Prenzlau was often crowned by an elaborate, ornamental gable.

A pointed arched portal, decorated with ceramic borders, was a typical feature of many village churches.

Gables with tiled decorations and intricate openwork, such as this gable of the south chapel of the Nikolaikirche in Wismar, are a feature of many Lower Pomeranian churches.

Terracotta tiles with raised decorative motifs were used in brick architecture in place of stone bas-reliefs.

Complex star vaulting with intricate ribbing replaced the earlier crossribbed vaulting.

Beam openings indicate that a robust type of scaffolding was used in the course of construction. The ends of the beams are incorporated in the walls.

Friezes on the arcades, such as this interlaced motif made from brick, are frequently used as a decorative element, even in village churches.

Secular Brick Architecture

Backsteingotik was not confined to churches – this style was used in magnificent town halls, weigh-houses, gateways and houses, mostly on narrow plots, with elaborate gables decorated with glazed bricks and white plasterwork.