Final answer:
The rounded east end of a Gothic cathedral, which includes the apse and ambulatory, is known as the chevet. It is an essential feature of Gothic architecture and contributes to the cathedral's design, allowing for large windows and a flood of light.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rounded east end of a Gothic cathedral, which includes the apse and ambulatory, is called the chevet. This architectural feature is a hallmark of Gothic architecture, which originated in France in the 12th century and spread throughout Europe. A cathedral designed in the basilica style typically has a nave, which is the central aisle that extends towards the apse. Additional aisles called lateral aisles or auxiliary hallways allow for circulation of visitors without disrupting services. The transept is the area that cuts across the building, giving it the shape of a cross, and the choir is located at the intersection of the nave and transept, a crucial area for liturgical functions.
Distinctive features of Gothic cathedrals, such as flying buttresses and ribbed vaults, provide both structural support and aesthetic grace, allowing cathedrals to reach great heights and contain large windows, filling the interiors with light. The chevet forms an essential part of a Gothic cathedral's layout and design, contributing to the overall spiritual and visual experience.