Cloister

Salisbury Cathedral, cloister, from top of tower

The Cloisters at Gloucester Cathedral

The Cloisters from Garden

Claustro de Santo Domingo de Silos. Galería sur

Cloitre prieure Saint-Michel de Grandmont

Cloister refers to a covered walk in a convent, monastery, cathedral, or college, usually with a wall on one side and a series of arches opening onto a courtyard on the other. The term originates from the Latin claustrum, meaning "enclosed space". Cloisters are significant in medieval architecture, serving both functional and spiritual purposes. They provide a space for processions, meditation, and sometimes as a location for teaching or communal activities within religious communities.

History and Architecture

The concept of the cloister evolved during the early Christian period, becoming a standard feature in Romanesque architecture by the 11th century and reaching its zenith in Gothic architecture between the 12th and 16th centuries. Cloisters were typically square or rectangular and were located adjacent to the main church or cathedral. The central courtyard, often landscaped with gardens, was surrounded by covered walkways that facilitated prayer and contemplation away from the public areas of the religious complex.

Gothic cloisters are particularly noted for their elaborate stone carvings, including capitals, columns, and arches, which often feature biblical scenes or motifs from nature. These decorative elements served not only as artistic expressions but also as educational tools, conveying religious stories and moral lessons to the monastic community and visitors.

Function

In addition to providing a quiet and contemplative space for monks or nuns, cloisters also served practical functions within the monastery. They were the site of various communal activities, including reading, teaching, and manual labor. The cloister's layout facilitated the separation of the monastic community from the laypeople, reinforcing the idea of withdrawal from the secular world, which is a central tenet of monastic life.

Cloisters also played a role in the physical organization of the monastery, connecting the main church with other buildings such as the chapter house, refectory, and dormitories. This arrangement allowed the monastic community to perform their daily routines in relative seclusion and silence.

Cultural Significance

Beyond their architectural beauty and functional utility, cloisters hold significant cultural and spiritual value. They symbolize the monastic ideal of a life dedicated to spiritual contemplation and separation from worldly concerns. The serene atmosphere of the cloister garden, often featuring a fountain or well, provides a powerful metaphor for the spiritual refreshment and purification sought by the monastic community.

In modern times, cloisters continue to fascinate scholars, tourists, and spiritual seekers alike. They are studied for their architectural and historical significance, and many are preserved as part of World Heritage Sites or museum complexes. The concept of the cloister has also transcended its original religious context, influencing contemporary architecture and design, particularly in spaces dedicated to reflection, such as memorial gardens and cemeteries.

Preservation and Tourism

Many cloisters, especially those attached to medieval cathedrals and monasteries, have been preserved and are open to the public as tourist attractions. These sites offer visitors a glimpse into the monastic life and medieval architecture. Preservation efforts are crucial in maintaining the structural integrity and artistic detail of these historic complexes, ensuring that they continue to inspire and educate future generations.