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[[File:St Pancras Railway Station 2012-06-23.jpg|upright=1.15|St Pancras railway station|St. Pancras railway station|thumb]] [[File:Selwyn College Gatehouse Tower, Cambridge, UK - Diliff.jpg|Selwyn College, Cambridge|thumb]] [[File:Central Hall.JPG|Central Hall of the Natural History Museum, London|Natural History Museum|thumb]] [[File:Houses of Parliament.jpg|Palace of Westminster|thumb]] '''Victorian architecture''' refers to a series of architectural revival styles that emerged in the mid-to-late 19th century during the reign of Queen [[Victoria]] (1837–1901). This period was marked by a diverse and eclectic revival of historical styles mixed with the introduction of middle east and Asian influences in building design. Victorian architecture is distinguished by its highly ornate detailing, vibrant colors, and asymmetrical shapes. This style of architecture is prevalent in the [[United Kingdom]], as well as in many former British colonies, including the [[United States]], [[Australia]], and [[Canada]].

==Characteristics==
Victorian architecture is not defined by a single style but by an era, and it encompasses a variety of styles including [[Gothic Revival]], [[Italianate]], [[Second Empire]], [[Queen Anne]], and [[Stick-Eastlake]], among others. Common characteristics of Victorian architecture include steeply pitched roofs, ornate gables, painted iron railings, and the use of patterned brick or stone to create elaborate facades. Interiors are equally detailed, with decorative stonework, stained glass, and carved woodwork.

===Gothic Revival===
The [[Gothic Revival]] style sought to revive medieval Gothic architecture, emphasizing pointed arches, vaulted ceilings, and intricate tracery. Buildings in this style were often made to appear ancient to convey a sense of romanticism and historical grandeur.

===Italianate===
The [[Italianate]] style was inspired by 16th-century Italian Renaissance architecture, characterized by its picturesque aesthetic. Features include low-pitched or flat roofs, tall windows, and towers or cupolas.

===Second Empire===
[[Second Empire]] architecture, influenced by the redevelopment of Paris under Napoleon III, is known for its mansard roofs and elaborate ornamentation. This style was popular for public buildings and grand urban houses.

===Queen Anne===
The [[Queen Anne]] style is perhaps the most emblematic of the Victorian era, known for its asymmetrical facades, overhanging eaves, round towers, and expansive porches. The use of bright paint colors and patterned wallpapers was also a hallmark of this style.

===Stick-Eastlake===
A subset of the Queen Anne style, [[Stick-Eastlake]] architecture is recognized by its wooden gridwork and decorative trusses, emphasizing the structure's underlying framework.

==Influence and Legacy==
Victorian architecture has had a lasting impact on architectural styles worldwide. In the [[United States]], Victorian architecture is often associated with the country's rapid expansion and urbanization during the 19th century. In [[Australia]] and [[New Zealand]], Victorian architecture reflects the prosperity of the gold rush era.

Despite falling out of favor in the early 20th century with the rise of modernist architecture, there has been a resurgence of interest in Victorian architectural styles. Preservation and restoration efforts have increased, recognizing the historical and aesthetic value of these buildings.

==Criticism and Controversy==
Victorian architecture has been subject to criticism for its perceived excess and ornamentation. Critics like [[John Ruskin]] and [[Oscar Wilde]] debated its merits, with some viewing it as a manifestation of social values and others as overly decorative and lacking in substance.

==See Also==
* [[Architecture of the United Kingdom]]
* [[Historic preservation]]
* [[Architectural style]]

[[Category:Architectural styles]]
[[Category:Victorian architecture]]
[[Category:19th-century architecture]]

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Victorian architecture - Revision history

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