Churches and Cathedrals 

In medieval times, religion controlled daily life. By 1350 CE, there was one church or chapel for every 200 people, with more churches being built all the time. All the important events of life took place in the medieval church - baptism, confirmation, marriage, and burial.

Cathedrals: Cathedrals were fancy churches. It cost a fortune and several decades to build a cathedral. Cathedrals were splendid, with no expense spared. They were built to honor God. In France alone, between 1050 CE and 1350 CE, over 500 cathedrals and 1000 parish churches were built. 

Most cathedrals were built in the shape of a cross. They had high arches and tall ceilings. Some ceilings were 100 feet high. Underneath the cathedral, workers usually built a crypt, which was a combination storage area for the town, and graveyard for the clergy. 

Only the most talented craftsman were allowed to work on a cathedral. Some spent their whole lives building one church. Workers were paid with food and housing. Some also received a little money to spend at tradesmen shops in town. The talented peasants who worked on cathedrals lived a much better life than did their fellow peasants on the farms. 

Interior Decoration:  Nearly all art in medieval times was created for religious purposes. Much of that art was showcased in the larger churches and cathedrals. But it was hard to see it. It was very dark inside. Even when the candles were lit, it was hard to see the many beautiful statues and religious tapestries.