In the second half of the 12th century, a true construction wave swept through Central Germany and the Baltic region, making the previously unknown material brick the starting point of a long tradition. It was used in both large church buildings and in the representative seats of the local lords, even though other stone building materials were often available. This interdisciplinary volume examines the early phase of brick construction up to the mid-13th century, primarily in northern Germany. However, it also looks towards Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, and Italy. Completely new findings from archaeology and building research are presented, highlighting cultural and regional historical contexts.