Final answer:
The Cistercians were a Catholic religious order that significantly influenced Gothic architecture in Italy. They promoted the spread of Gothic architecture, introduced architectural features.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Cistercians were a Catholic religious order founded in 1098 in France. They were significant to Gothic architecture in Italy in several ways:
- The Cistercians played a major role in promoting the spread of Gothic architecture throughout Europe, including Italy. They were known for their emphasis on simplicity, austerity, and spirituality, which influenced the design of Gothic cathedrals.
- The Cistercians were skilled builders and architects, and they actively participated in the construction of Gothic cathedrals. They introduced several architectural features, such as ribbed vaults and pointed arches, which became defining characteristics of Gothic architecture in Italy.
- The Cistercians established many monasteries in Italy, and these monasteries served as centers of learning and culture. They preserved and transmitted knowledge of architectural techniques, including Gothic architecture, to future generations.