Station: [7] Vaulted structures

Today, most buildings are likely to sport reinforced concrete floors. This technique was of course unknown during the Renaissance. Beams were used to construct an intermediate boarded floor, or the landlord could decide in favour of vaults. Not only was this more prestigious, but also much more stable. At Schloss Horst the groin vault was preferred over other options. This structure was even used by the Romans, in Germany there is evidence of it being used as far back as the eighth century.

Masons are responsible for the construction of these vaults. To begin with, they build wooden trestles. These stabilise and support the arches being constructed from below. Only once the craftsmen have mostly completed the vault are the trestles removed – and the ceiling remains stable. At least the building journals do not report any incidence in which newly constructed vaults and arches collapse ...”