The aisleless cruciform church: its occurrence and meanings in romanesque Europe
Jill Franklin
This study aims to establish the foundation for theory that aisleless cruciform church was a building type exclusive priesthood until late eleventh century, pointing distinctive identity of intended occupants such buildings in and twelfth centuries—canons, rather than monks—and focusing on hitherto undetected phenomena frequent appropriation these churches by monks, as well their replacement aisled structures. A paradigm is proposed shape Basilica Apostolorum, an late-fourth-century established Milan Bishop Ambrose, enduringly identified with Cross. Acknowledged have been inspiration similar examples into following plan Milanese said first time here revived Carolingian Renaissance. 

The Ambrose’s retained, even though its superstructure refurbished after 1075. Its ancient associations still acknowledged, appears relaunched then, coincident major papal reforms, crucial symbolism doubtless also resonating among proponents crusades. It argued used systematically England century newly regularised communities priests observing Rule St Augustine, promoted pope Alexander II, importance whose contribution has underestimated. The adoption canons at post-Conquest York Cathedral, always seen surprising context Anglo-Norman architecture, shown consistent this tradition, especially given city’s association Constantine, known his attachment sign 

It suggested selection reformed Benedictines constituted use Stephen Harding’s circle responsible deployment early Cistercians, Ambrosian connotations reflecting both ethos reform movement new congregation’s desire authenticity.