The built environment of Norman England
I can describe how Normans introduced changes to the built environment.
The built environment of Norman England
I can describe how Normans introduced changes to the built environment.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The Normans loved an architectural style known now as Romanesque.
- Romanesque style looked back to features of ancient Roman architecture, such as huge stone columns and rounded arches.
- Castles were a major change to the built environment; stone replaced timber for building mainly from the 12th century.
- Within 30 years of the Norman conquest, most church buildings in England were being rebuilt in Romanesque style.
- There were several reasons for the vast programme of rebuilding, including religious reforms and Norman wealth.
Common misconception
The Normans invented Romanesque architecture.
The Normans were enthusiastic adopters of Romanesque building style, but it was developed in northern Italy and France, combining Roman features with elements of Byzantine design.
Keywords
Built environment - the landscape created by buildings and infrastructure like roads and bridges
Romanesque - an architectural style based on features of ancient Roman buildings
Architecture - the design and construction of buildings
Order - a group of individuals who live under a religious rule, dedicating themselves to a specific way of life
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
seeds for crops were sown on the fields
the crops were harvested
the fields were ploughed
some animals were slaughtered
types of crops grown, seasonal farming
fall in the number of freemen, who the lord was
housing materials, way villagers lived
number of monasteries, number of enslaved people