Filippo Brunelleschi

The Roman Catholic Church, being the only universal European institution of the Middle Ages, practically governed every aspect of society. Medieval Europeans viewed the Church as a blessing from God; a humble order which was sent to protect them from the numerous raids and invasions which consequently led to chaos and disorder in society. Europeans that lived during the medieval times were pious and devout Christians. They believed that the road to eternal happiness was to fear their almighty…

Question 1 The Benedictine abbey of St. Gall and the Cistercian Abbey of Fontenay both bear designs that reflect the monastic lifestyle which was defined by the 6th century Rule of St. Benedict. The monastic design of the abbeys is characterized by main features such as a church, dormitories meant for sleep, a caldarium, a cloister and a chapterhouse. The Rule of Saint Benedict called for monks to maintain a life of obedience, chastity and poverty. Furthermore, it also stated that monks should…