The thirteenth century witnessed major changing economic and social circumstances, above all the growth of the towns which accompanied greater economic activity; and the growth of universities (Oxford, Paris, Cambridge, Bologna, Salamanca), usually out of cathedral schools, as independent centers of learning. Powerful nation states, especially France, rose in Europe at the expense of papal power. Governments were increasingly centralized and professionalized.

The thirteenth century represents the flowering of medieval culture. The confidence and religious fervour of the thirteenth century found superb expression in Gothic architecture which, although dating from the twelfth century, was perfected throughout the thirteenth century. The “French Style” (as medievals called it) became the most popular architectural style throughout Europe, from Sicily to Scandinavia, from the British Isles to Poland. The Reims cathedral was begun in the 1220s; the Sainte Chapelle in Paris was built during the fifth decade of the thirteenth century. It was one of the defining architectural styles of European culture. With its pointed arches, searing heights and shimmering light, Gothic architecture draws the gaze of the worshipper up to heaven. It is an architectural expression of the self-transcending dynamic of the medieval mind.