The pointed arch, also called pointed arch, is an extensive typology of arches "Arch (architecture)") that are composed of two arch segments forming a central angle in the key "Key (architecture)").[1] It is usually used in geometric contrast to the segmental arch. The pointed arch transmits the lateral thrust better than a semicircular one, this means that more open openings, higher walls can be built and a greater sensation of verticality can be obtained.

Previously used by the Abbasids in the 19th century. In Islamic architecture, the pointed horseshoe arch or arco tumido appears since the 19th century. It has precedents in Romanesque art (century). It was used in the Burgundian Romanesque. It is typical of Gothic architecture (- century).

During the century, the use of the pointed ogee arch, or concave-convex, with four centers became widespread, two internal ones in the intrados, at the height of the imposts, and two external ones in the rear dosos. Later, the lowered arch appears, type carpanel, or with three centers, two at the height of the imposts and one below it, much larger. The so-called Tudor arch, typical of England. The segmental arch, which does not reach the semicircle, was also used in Gothic architecture, in secondary openings. In the last era of Gothic art, the mixtilinear arch was used, composed of a succession of concave, convex and straight segments.

The pointed or propped arch has circular arcs tangent to the mocheta lines and that intersect at an acute vertex. In 19th century Europe, the pointed arch not only represents an aesthetic change that breaks with the classicism of the semicircular arch, typical of Roman and Romanesque architecture, but it is also more effective, because thanks to its verticality the lateral pressures are less than in the semicircular arch, allowing greater spaces to be saved. It is typical of Gothic architecture.

The section of the pointed arch reproduces the increasingly complex nerves of the Gothic system, which are also manifested in the same moldings of the pillar. It has an arrowhead shape that, due to its vertical shape, allows the height of the building to be raised.