What distinguishes a flying buttress from other architectural supports?

The distinguishing feature of a flying buttress is that it is an external projection of support designed to brace the walls of a building, particularly in Gothic architecture. This design allows for the distribution of the weight of the roof and upper walls, which enables the construction of taller, more light-filled structures with larger windows. The external nature of flying buttresses sets them apart from other supports that are typically incorporated into the walls themselves.

In contrast, some architectural supports are purely structural and may be hidden within the walls, while flying buttresses are prominently visible, which contributes not only to their function but also to the aesthetic character of the buildings they adorn. The misconception that flying buttresses are merely decorative or serve only aesthetic purposes fails to recognize their critical role in supporting the structures, particularly in terms of stabilizing the walls and preventing outward thrust. The functionality and distinct positioning of flying buttresses emphasize their importance in Gothic architecture, making them a pivotal innovation of their time.