Fan vault Facts for Kids

Fan vaulting over the nave at Bath Abbey, Bath, England.

A fan vault is a special kind of ceiling found in old buildings, especially churches. It's famous for its beautiful, fan-like patterns. Imagine a giant fan opening up on the ceiling! This unique style was very popular during the Perpendicular Gothic period in architecture, mostly in England.

What is a Fan Vault?
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What is a Fan Vault?

A fan vault gets its name because it looks like an open fan. It's a type of vault where all the stone ribs (the raised lines you see) have the same curve. They are also spaced out evenly, creating a very neat and decorative pattern. This makes the ceiling look very grand and impressive.

A Unique Design

The design of a fan vault is quite clever. The ribs spread out from a central point, just like the spokes of a fan. These ribs don't just look pretty; they also help support the weight of the ceiling. The spaces between the ribs are often filled with carved stone panels. This creates a smooth, flowing surface that looks very different from other types of vaults.

Where Can You See Them?

Fan vaults are a special feature of English Gothic architecture. You can find them in many famous cathedrals and chapels across England. They often appear in important parts of buildings, like the main nave (the central part of a church) or in smaller chapels.

Famous Examples

One of the most famous places to see fan vaults is King's College Chapel in Cambridge, England. Its ceiling is a stunning example of this style. Another beautiful example is at Bath Abbey, where the fan vaulting covers the entire nave. You can also see them at Winchester Cathedral and Henry VII Chapel at Westminster Abbey in London. These vaults show how skilled medieval builders were.

The History of Fan Vaults

The earliest known fan vault appeared around 1351. This style became very popular during the Perpendicular Gothic period, which lasted from the late 14th century to the early 16th century. Builders used new techniques to create these complex and beautiful ceilings. They wanted to make buildings feel taller and more open, and fan vaults helped achieve this grand effect.