Which Paris landmark exemplifies Early Gothic architecture?

• A. Old St. Peters
• B. Basilica of St. Philibert
• C. St. Denis
• D. Mezquita Mosque and Cathedral

Answer: (C)

Early Gothic architecture is defined by height, light, and the use of pointed arches and ribbed vaults to create taller, brighter spaces. Saint-Denis, just outside Paris, became the turning point when Abbot Suger remodeled the abbey church in the mid-12th century. He replaced heavy, rounded arches with pointed arches, introduced ribbed vaults, and opened the interior with larger windows, creating a sense of vertical ascent and luminous space. This combination set the template for how French Gothic cathedrals would be built and how churches around Paris would express light and height. Because of its influence and location, Saint-Denis is the Paris landmark that best exemplifies Early Gothic architecture. The other locations come from different places or styles and do not represent the Paris-originating Gothic innovations in the same way.