Pointed arches are a key architectural feature commonly associated with the Gothic style, which flourished in Europe from the 12th to the 16th centuries. Unlike the rounded arches of earlier Romanesque architecture, pointed arches have a sharp apex, allowing for greater height and stability. This design helps distribute weight more effectively, enabling the construction of taller and more intricate structures. The use of pointed arches also allowed for larger windows, which were often filled with stained glass to create vibrant light effects inside buildings. This innovation contributed to the overall aesthetic and spiritual experience of cathedrals and other significant structures during the Middle Ages.