Fireplaces in Mediaeval Homes

As far as historians can recall, fire has always been at the center of early human lives. Over the course of history, fireplaces have been there to provide warmth and cook the food that people have eaten. As society evolved however, the fireplace and its primary role did as well. Over time the fireplace has evolved from a source of cooking and heat to a decoration and status symbol.

Throughout each period of history, distinct styles of fireplaces were developed. The fireplace changed its function in our homes as society evolved. From its original role as a source of heating food and water, the fireplace transitioned to become a source of decoration and status. It became a pleasurable place for company to gather; a source of contentment and artistic delight for its owner.

In Mediaeval times, the fireplace evolved started to evolve into the form we know today – with a mantel and chimney. Before this period, in pre-Norman times, the fire was typically built in the center of the main room and the smoke was allowed to drift up to the ceiling. The smoke was allowed to drift out of windows and a small hole cut into the ceiling. While the fireplace has evolved at roughly the same pace as other home technologies, it has take a long time for it to evolve into the modern form that we see today like the ventless fireplace or electric heater.

In Saxon homes, during the Mediaeval period, the traditional home would generally start as a one room building. As the family grew, so did the home, by adding new rooms onto the existing structure. The main room – with the fireplace – was always the focal point of the building though. The heat from the main room would radiate out to provide heat to the rest of the house.

The main hall, sometimes referred to the main room or common hall in history books, was almost always on the ground floor. The fire was built in the center of the room and the smoke would exit through a small hole cut into the room for the sole purpose of venting smoke. Chimneys still hadn’t been developed yet. There was also no ceiling between the main hall and the roof – allowing plenty of space for excessive smoke to gather without smothering the occupants.