During the 1840s a new debate began in England on the principles of conservation and restoration of historic buildings, and especially of mediaeval churches. This debate divided the people into two opposing groups, restorers and anti-restorationists, who gradually contributed to the clarification of the principles in architectural conservation. Although, looking at the debate from a general point of view, both sides seemed to have much in common, both often speaking of conservation; the basic difference was in the definition of the object. The restorers were mainly concerned about the faithful ‘restoration’ and, if necessary, reconstruction of the original architectural form emphasizing the practical and functional aspect.