Geometry and Construction Techniques of Gothic Vaults in Brabant (Belgium)

The present paper is concerned with the masonry webs of Gothic rib vaults built in the former Duchy of Brabant between the thirteenth and the sixteenth century. Contemporary documents providing information on vault geometry and construction are exceptional in Europe; they are non-existent or at best very fragmentary in Brabant. The buildings themselves are the principal source of information. Rib vaults are complex three-dimensional structures. In order to facilitate their understanding, four exemplary vaults were surveyed using a hybrid technique combining reflectorless total station measurements and digital photogrammetry. Four textured 3D computer models were built. After a short description of the surveying and modelling technique, the vaults are analysed and hypotheses are formulated on their construction technique. Emphasis is given to the close relationships existing between materials, geometry and construction techniques.