Basements in 13th Century Houses: A Closer Look

In the 13th century, the presence of basements in houses varied significantly depending on the region and the type of structure. Here are some key points that elucidate the presence and purpose of basements in houses from that era.

Geographical Differences

The geographical location played a significant role in the existence of basements in 13th century houses. In colder climates, particularly in Northern Europe, some houses did have basements or cellars. These subterranean spaces were often used for storage, especially for food preservation. The cooler underground temperatures helped keep perishable items fresh, which was crucial for households struggling with limited refrigeration options.

Material and Construction

The construction techniques and available materials also influenced the practicality of installing basements. In areas with abundant stone, such as parts of France and England, stone structures might include cellars. Conversely, timber-framed houses, common in other regions, typically did not have basements due to their construction methods. This difference in building materials and techniques reflects the varying architectural and environmental considerations of the time.

Social Status

Wealthier households or noble residences were more likely to have elaborate cellars or basements for storage of wine, food, and other goods. In contrast, simpler peasant homes rarely included such features. This social differentiation highlights the socioeconomic disparities of the 13th century and the varying levels of luxury and necessity that existed based on the status of the homeowner.

Functionality

Basements served multiple practical purposes during the 13th century. They were often used for storage but could also function as living spaces during hot weather. However, basements were less common in urban areas where houses were built closer together. This urban-rural divide reflects the density of housing and the different living conditions experienced by city dwellers versus those in more rural settings.

Overall, while some 13th-century houses had basements, it was not a universal feature. The presence of basements largely depended on local conditions and social status. This variability underscores the diverse architectural and cultural landscapes of the 13th century.

The Survival of Medieval Structures

We have very few 13th-century buildings surviving. This scarcity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, there were not an abundance of these structures. Secondly, in England, many still had fire pits in the middle of an open room. Over the following centuries, there was a tendency to rebuild these houses with chimneys and enclosed bedrooms.

My 16th-century house, built 300 years later, does have chimneys. However, the insurers do not approve of their use. My house also features a cellar under one room. The walls of the cellar are made of clunch, a porous stone, which requires an electric pump to keep it dry. The previous occupants presumably relied on buckets to maintain the cellar's dryness. Interestingly, one problem in England, and indeed much of Europe, is that the water table is not far below the surface, making it challenging to keep a cellar dry.

Despite these challenges, many colleges have extensive wine cellars. I am not entirely certain how they maintain them, but they may use racks to keep the wine out of any water and add pumps for additional protection. This insight into the modern maintenance of medieval features provides a fascinating link between the past and the present.