A squint brick is a small, angled opening in a wall, typically found in medieval churches. It's usually located high up on the wall, often near the ceiling, and allows someone inside the church to see the altar or other important features.
Why are Squint Bricks Used?
Squint bricks were often used for a few reasons:
- To allow those unable to see the altar to participate in the service: This was particularly relevant for people with disabilities or those who were elderly or infirm.
- To provide a view of the altar for those who were not able to be near the front of the church: This could include people who were working in the church, like the sacristan, or those who were considered "unclean" and therefore could not be near the altar.
- To create a symbolic connection between the interior and exterior of the church: Some scholars believe that squint bricks were used to represent the connection between the earthly realm and the divine realm.
Examples of Squint Bricks
Squint bricks can be found in many medieval churches around the world. Some notable examples include:
- St. Albans Cathedral in England: This cathedral has several squint bricks, including one that allows a view of the high altar from the sacristy.
- Durham Cathedral in England: The Durham Cathedral has a squint brick that allows a view of the altar from the monks' dormitory.
- Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France: While not as common in French churches, Notre Dame has a squint brick that allows a view of the altar from a small room above the choir.
Squint Bricks in Modern Architecture
While squint bricks are primarily associated with medieval architecture, they have also been used in modern buildings. For example, some contemporary churches have incorporated squint bricks into their designs to create a sense of connection between the interior and exterior spaces.
