Rib vault

A vault whose projecting ribs form a framework supporting masonry panels. The ribs carry and channel loads while the panels fill the spaces between them.

Groin vault: A vault formed by the intersection of two barrel vaults. Unlike a rib vault, its intersecting surfaces need not have projecting structural ribs.
Arch: A curved structure that spans an opening and transfers loads toward its supports. Each vault rib is built as an arch spanning part of a bay.
Roman architecture: The architectural traditions developed and used across the Roman world. Roman builders used intersecting vaults and masonry techniques that informed later ribbed construction.
Quadripartite vault: A rib vault divided into four cells by two diagonal ribs crossing between the bay's corners. This common form covers a rectangular bay with a simple four-part rib framework.
Gothic cathedral: A large Christian church built in the Gothic architectural style. Its height and expansive interior often depended on rib vaults working with pointed arches and buttresses.
Pointed arch: An arch with two curved sides meeting at an apex. Its adaptable height and span made it useful for ribbed vaults over varied bays.
Masonry: Construction using units such as stone or brick, joined with or without mortar. Both the ribs and the infill panels are assembled from masonry units.
Durham Cathedral: A Norman cathedral in northeastern England, begun in 1093. Its nave preserves an early large-scale use of rib vaulting.
Sexpartite vault: A rib vault divided into six cells by three ribs crossing over a bay. Its additional transverse rib creates a six-part pattern used in some Gothic churches.
Clerestory: An upper wall containing windows that light the central space of a building. Rib vaults helped reduce the need for continuous heavy walls, allowing higher windows.

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