Romanesque architecture was predominantly occupied with expanding the size of structures. This can be well summed up by highlighting the use of semi-circular arches, buttresses, and unnecessarily thick walls. The Gothic period, at its core, is not all that different from the Romanesque; it merely expands upon it. The era seeks to soar to higher heights, allow for more artistic involvement, and increase the complexity of its structures. This is evidenced by the use of the flying buttress, pointed arch, spire, and ribbings. The added elements of stained glass, and sculpture allowed the buildings of the Gothic to serve more as part of the Religious experience, than it was during the Romanesque.