Gilding, the process of painstakingly applying gold leaf to surfaces, is a decorative technique that dates back centuries.
The greatest exponents of the craft can be found in Italy, where they pass their secrets down the generations. Many buildings in the world are totally or partially covered in gold leaf.
Tourists worldwide visit the most beautiful cities and are always mesmerised by the work of goldbeaters who perpetuate a tradition of precision and beauty.
Gilding Through the Ages
Manetti, to name one, is one of the most famous in the gilding craft. They were responsible for the gilding of many of the buildings in this article.
The use of gold leaf as a decorative element goes far beyond aesthetics. Throughout history, it has been employed to symbolise wealth, power, and spirituality. In ancient Egypt, gold was associated with the sun god Ra, and its use in tombs and temples reflected a belief in eternal life.
Similarly, in Renaissance Europe, gold leaf adorned churches and palaces, signifying both the divine and the power of the ruling elite. Today, the application of gold leaf continues to inspire awe, reminding us of the enduring human desire to create beauty and grandeur.
Big Ben, London, UK
Without a doubt, Big Ben is by far the most famous building in London, the thriving capital of the United Kingdom.
Even if London isn’t the sunniest place in Europe, tourists can marvel at the top of the tower, covered in gold leaf, right around the famous clock. It has to be noted that the gold leaf surfaces were applied following the expensive refurbishment of the Tower, starting in 2017.
Cour de Marbre, Versailles, France
Le Château de Versailles is the epitome of French architecture and flamboyance. It’s no wonder millions of visitors appreciate the famous Cour de Marbre, a square surrounded by magnificent buildings with roofs covered with gold leaf.
The vast Versailles complex covers many acres, and it’s filled with masterpieces and exquisite architecture. It’s only natural that gold is a prominent material used for the castle, as it was used to impress visitors from other countries in the heyday of Louis XIV.
Grand Place, Brussels, Belgium
Brussels was once one of the richest cities in Europe, and its connections to foreign merchants and craftsmen have helped make this place look wealthy and opulent.
The main pit-stop for a person visiting Brussels is the Grand Place, a large building covered in gold leaf around its windows. Along with drinking a beer and eating a waffle, seeing the Grand Place is a must-do while visiting Brussels.
Nativity Church, Florence, Italy
There are many beautiful churches worldwide that are covered in gold leaf. The Nativity Church in Italy is the most elegant and charismatic building.
Gold-leaf steeples can also be seen in other parts of Italy, such as Venice. Visiting the Nativity Church truly takes people back to the Golden Age of Florence, during the Renaissance, when the city was bustling with riches and wonders.
Golden Temple, Kyoto, Japan
Most people who visit Japan tend to agree that this is a place like nowhere else in the world, starting with traditional architecture that showed a great sense of style through the centuries.
Kyoto’s Golden Temple is a Buddhist temple whose two top floors are covered in gold leaf. It’s simply stunning and is well-located in the centre of a peaceful garden.
Some say that the pond reflecting on the building at sunset is one of the prettiest things they have ever seen. Gold leaf certainly adds majesty to that temple and brings joy to tourists.
Finally, gold leaf adds a touch of magic to historic buildings, transforming them into shimmering proof of human artistry and cultural heritage.
From the clock face of Big Ben to the peaceful gardens surrounding the Golden Temple in Kyoto, these structures continue to captivate visitors with their brilliance.
The meticulous application of gold leaf not only enhances the beauty of these buildings but also offers a glimpse into the historical and cultural contexts in which they were created.
So, the next time you travel, keep an eye out for the glint of gold – it might just lead you to a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
gold was such an important element of architecture for centuries! It is almost completely phased out now. I wonder if we are to see the comeback to it in our lifetimes.