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France architecture has been the best in Europe ever since the Medieval Ages. The French were architectural pioneers and some of the best creations were designed and built here. This remained true in time and France is still at the forefront of architectural innovation.

The French architecture style in the Medieval Ages was Gothic. First was the Early Gothic, which got its start in 1140. It was characterized by the use of pointed arches. The walls were divided in four tiers, so they would be taller: clerestorey, triforium, gallery and arcade. Next, the High Gothic style appeared in the 13^th century and took the Early Gothic style to the next level. Some examples of High Gothic France architecture can be seen at Notre-Dame de Chartres and Notre-Dame de Paris.

The Baroque architecture style was next in France, evolving during the 17^th and 18^th centuries. Many French castles were built using the Baroque style, with three wings in their layout. Some of the buildings from that period are Palais du Luxembourg, Chateau de Maisons, Versailles and Les Invalides.

The Empire style followed the Baroque in France, during the 19^th century. It was a form of Neoclassicism, in its second phase, which took its name from Napoleon’s First French Empire. If you want a famous example of the Empire style in France, take a look at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris or at the Vendome column.

Beaux Arts is the name of the style that came after the Empire, and was popular in France during the first decades of the 20^th century. It built on the neoclassical styles and made them more lavish and grandiose. Medallions, shield, flowers and swags were added to facades, which made for houses that were imposing and could only be afforded by the rich. The material of choice for these homes was stone.

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