Why was Cologne Cathedral built in the Gothic style?

Cologne Cathedral was designed in the Gothic style in 1248 to emulate French church architecture following the destruction of the previous cathedral by fire.1

The choice of the Gothic style allowed for the construction of a significantly larger and taller building than its predecessors. By utilizing structural innovations such as ribbed vaults, pointed arches, and flying buttresses, architects were able to distribute the weight of the massive stone structure more efficiently. This system relieved the walls of their supportive function, enabling the inclusion of expansive windows that filled the interior with light.23

As a major Rayonnant monument, the cathedral reflects the 13th-century dominance of French architectural influence in Europe. Later, in the 19th century, the completion of the cathedral became a significant project of the Gothic Revival movement, serving as a symbol of German nationalism and the German spirit.4315