What architectural element is designed to allow higher walls and support roofs?

The flying buttress is a structural element that is essential for supporting higher walls and allowing for larger roof spans in architecture, especially during the Gothic period. It typically consists of an arch that extends from the upper portion of a wall to a pier some distance away. This design not only provides stability to the wall by redirecting the lateral forces but also enables the construction of taller structures with thinner walls. This characteristic was crucial for the grand cathedrals of the time, where soaring ceilings and large stained-glass windows were prominent features.

Understanding the role of flying buttresses can highlight their importance in enabling architectural advancements, such as those seen in Gothic cathedrals, where the desire for light and verticality led to innovations in wall support that were both functional and visually striking.