It originated in France in the 12th century and lasted until the 16th century, and the style includes the pointed arch, ribbed vault, and flying buttress. Gothic architecture is most familiar as the architecture of many of the great cathedrals, abbeys, and parish churches of Europe. It is also the architecture of many castles, palaces, town halls, guild halls, universities, and to a less prominent extent, private dwellings. I know this is a little off topic but this was the best I could do, feel free to shot me any questions you have further than this answer.
Gothic churches are immensely complex buildings. It can be difficult to keep so many different elements straight, particularly since there are considerable differences between different buildings.
