squarehewn

Squarehewn refers to a construction technique and architectural style characterized by the use of roughly shaped, squared stones. These stones are typically larger than rubble masonry and are dressed to have relatively flat faces and squared edges, though they may not be perfectly uniform. The resulting walls present a more orderly and geometric appearance compared to walls built with irregularly shaped stones.

This method was common in various historical periods and cultures. It can be found in medieval fortifications, Romanesque churches, and vernacular architecture across Europe and beyond. The process of squarehewing involved shaping the stones using hammers and chisels, creating a more stable and aesthetically pleasing structure. While not as refined as ashlar masonry, where stones are precisely cut and laid in uniform courses, squarehewn construction offered a balance of durability and relative ease of construction. The joints between the stones in squarehewn walls are often filled with mortar. The visual effect is one of substantiality and robustness, with the individual stone units being clearly discernible.