The term
Norman architecture is used to categorise styles of
Romanesque architecture developed by the
Normans in the various lands under their dominion or influence in the 11th and 12th centuries. In particular the term is traditionally used for English Romanesque architecture. The Normans introduced large numbers of
castles and
fortifications including Norman
keeps, and at the same time
monasteries,
abbeys,
churches and
cathedrals, in a style characterised by the usual Romanesque rounded
arches (particularly over windows and doorways) and especially massive proportions compared to other regional variations of the style.