Monastery bricks are large, hand-formed bricks that were widely used in medieval and early-modern construction, particularly in churches, monasteries, and civic buildings. Their generous dimensions and characteristic irregular surface give historic brickwork its distinctive appearance.
Application
Monastery bricks — sometimes called “kloostermoppen” in Dutch — are significantly larger than modern standard bricks. A typical monastery brick measures roughly 28 to 30 cm long, 13 to 14 cm wide, and 7 to 9 cm tall, compared to about 21 x 10 x 5 cm for a modern brick. Because they were shaped by hand and fired in simple kilns, no two bricks are exactly alike.
Where you encounter them
- Historic restorations — When repairing or extending a medieval building, matching the original brick size and texture is essential to maintain authenticity. Specialist manufacturers still produce monastery bricks for this purpose.
- Reclaimed brickwork — Salvaged monastery bricks from demolished buildings are sought after for feature walls, fireplaces, and garden projects. Their weathered patina adds instant character.
- New builds with a traditional look — Some homeowners choose monastery-format bricks to give a new house or garden wall a robust, old-world appearance.
Working with monastery bricks
- Mortar joints — Because the bricks are large, the mortar joints are wider than in standard brickwork, typically 15 to 20 mm. Use a lime-based mortar for authentic results and better moisture management.
- Weight — Each brick is heavier than a standard brick, so plan for the extra load when designing walls and foundations.
- Cutting — Hand-formed bricks can be harder to cut cleanly. Score the surface with a bolster chisel and use a brick saw for precise cuts.
- Sourcing — Check reclamation yards for genuine old monastery bricks, or order new reproductions from specialty brickmakers.
Related terms
- Building materials
- Mortar
- Masonry
- Architectural style
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