Looking at Buildings

Building Types

Trail:

The 15th - 16th Century Church

In the later middle ages, especially in prosperous areas, much rebuilding took place: porches were added, aisles widened and given larger windows, naveGlossary Term walls heightened and the interior lightened by a clerestorey. Chantry chapels created either within the building or as additional structures provided places for prayers for those buried there. Taller towers and spires, paid for the local community, reflected pride in the parish church as a local landmark. Not all churches developed to this extent; for small and remote places the simple chancelGlossary Term and naveGlossary Term could suffice throughout the middle ages.

Glossary

Chancel

The eastern part or end of a church, where the altar is placed; usually set apart for the clergy.

Nave

The body of a church west of the crossing or chancel, often flanked by aisles.