Medieval Towns vs Monasteries

Question 1

Describe the features of water systems in Medieval towns. (3)

Answer 1

1. Built near water, so most ppl got their water from local wells and rivers or through old Roman water systems
2. Places like London used new tech with wooden or lead pipes.
3. Existing systems couldn’t cope with demand for water as the pop. grew.

Question 2

Describe the features of water systems in Medieval monasteries. (2)

Answer 2

1. Had elaborate plumbing and filtering systems that ensured a separate supply of clean water
2. Always built near fresh water - rivers were redirected to ensure a reliable supply

Question 3

Describe the hygiene in Medieval towns. (4)

Answer 3

1. Cesspits dug out to be used as manure
2. Streets outside wealthier homes were cleaner
3. Councils tried to stop businesses from polluting the rivers that people bathed in and drank from
4. Improvements were needed but increasing taxes would’ve been unpopular

Question 4

Describe the hygiene in Medieval monasteries. (2)

Answer 4

1. Compulsory baths once a month (more frequently than townspeople) as a religious routine of cleanliness
2. Isolation from towns protected monks from diseases

Question 5

Describe the sewage maintenance in Medieval towns. (2)

Answer 5

1. Had privies and cesspits where waste was collected - this could leak into nearby rivers or streets
2. Rivers were used to dump waste and sewage

Question 6

Describe the sewage maintenance in Medieval monasteries. (2)

Answer 6

1. Privies were emptied to use as manure

2. Waste water was emptied into nearby rivers