Lantern of the dead facts for kids
A Lantern of the Dead is a tall, stand-alone building, a bit like a small tower. These mysterious structures were built during the Middle Ages, mostly in central France. The top part of the structure has an opening where a light could be placed. Most of these lanterns were built in the 12th and 13th centuries.
Nobody knows for sure why they were built, because there are no old writings explaining their exact purpose. One idea is that they were built for older beliefs, even before Christianity. People might have thought the light helped spirits find their way home after death. Lanterns of the Dead come in many shapes: round, square, six-sided, or like a tall pillar. Some are even built next to a small church or chapel.
Images for kids
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Lantern of the Dead in Sarlat-la-Caneda, France
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Lantern of the Dead at Cellefrouin
