HOLY METROPOLIS OF RHODES
Looking Up – The lighting study as a tool for highlighting Gothic architecture in the churches of Rhodes island.
Gothic architecture, with its imposing presence, transports the gaze upwards, directing the spirit to an inner and heavenly resurrection. In the Gothic churches of Rhodes, this feeling is enhanced through a modern approach to the study of lighting, which exploits the position of light temperatures to highlight the upper structural and aesthetic characteristics of the worship space.
The distinguishing feature of Gothic architecture is the pointed arch – the main mechanical innovation of the era. Its use allowed the development of cross vaults, buttresses and elaborate stone decorations on windows. These elements are not simply architectural components; they compose a complete whole, at once functional and aesthetic, which constitutes the essence of the Gothic style.
In the context of the lighting study of the metropolis of Rhodes, the pointed arches and the upper levels of the church are highlighted with cold light (4000K), which enhances the detail of the stone construction, reveals the texture and gives a purity and ethereal light. This approach encourages the visitor to “look up”, to seek the spiritual dimension that the Gothic style exudes.
Conversely, the lower levels of the church in the prayer areas, the floor and the furniture – are illuminated with warmer light (2700K) creating a more earthy, intimate and human space. This visual contrast between cold and warm light creates a visual contrast that highlights each spirit of Gothic architecture and offers a pure experiential experience to the visitor of the church.
The choice of light, beyond the design approach, is also a means of storytelling. It highlights the technical innovations of the Middle Ages and integrates them into a contemporary dialogue between architecture, history, the religion of Orthodoxy and lighting.
Rhodes, with its unique historical heritage, becomes the ideal setting for such an approach, where light does not simply illuminate, but reveals architectural elements and at the same time functions as a means of prayer in religious worship.
Project
