The development of the ribbed vault impacted medieval architecture in several ways:
1. Structural stability: The ribbed vault allowed for greater stability in Gothic cathedrals and other large buildings. The ribs distributed weight down to the piers and walls, reducing the need for thick walls, pillars, and buttresses.
2. Height and light: The ribbed vault allowed for greater height and light in Gothic cathedrals. The reduced weight allowed for higher ceilings, while the ribbed structure allowed for larger windows and more natural light.
3. Ornamentation: The ribs of the vaults provided an opportunity for decorative carving and adornment, which became a hallmark of Gothic architecture.
4. Regional variation: The development of the ribbed vault also contributed to regional variations in Gothic architecture. Different regions adopted their own unique styles, often based on the type of vaulting used, such as the sexpartite vaults of England or the quadripartite vaults of France.
Overall, the development of the ribbed vault was a major advancement in medieval architecture and contributed to the beauty, functionality, and diversity of Gothic buildings.
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