What was the purpose of such agricultural features as large pointed arches and spires in medieval European architecture?

Answer 1

Both pointed arches as well as spires were employed as a means of achieving greater height in the structures. Cathedrals were the skyscrapers of their time. The size, height and placement of these features was greatly dependent upon the country or region where they were constructed.

Answer 2

The stated purpose was to force one's eyes to look up towards the heavens.

As a practical matter, the large pointed arches made it possible to build walls with large windows. This admitted more light to the building during daytime. It also reduced the weight of the wall, making it possible to use less stone in the supporting columns, making them narrower, and increasing the relative sizes of the entrances and the nave.

The spires proclaimed the fact that there was a church or cathedral in that place, so it can be seen from a distance. They also provide a visual counterpoint to the arches themselves, and so worked visually well with the style.

Answer 3

There are two theories for the significance of the Gothic architectural spire.

The first is that the spire could be seen atop churches from a distance, emphasizing the church's close relationship to the heavens and to God.

It was also seen as an indicator of martial power. The pointed top of the spire was made to resemble that of a spear.

Answer 4

to force one's eyes to look up toward the heavens (gradpoints)