England's Historic Cathedral - Summary
Canterbury Cathedral in England is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means it’s not just a national symbol of England’s religious history, but of universal value. From its outside architecture to the inside’s stained-glass windows, worship spaces, burial sites, and passageways, there’s a lot to see when you visit. Here are some interesting facts you might not know, which could make you even more excited to visit Canterbury Cathedral on a tour from London.
1. Augustine founded the Cathedral in 597 AD
Yes, you read that right. St Augustine founded Canterbury Cathedral. Pope Gregory sent him the Great to bring Christianity to the Anglo-Saxons. The Cathedral has changed a lot since then, but its beginnings go back almost 1,500 years, making it one of England’s oldest Christian buildings.
2. The Site of a Shocking Murder
One of the most dramatic events in the Cathedral’s history was the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170. Beginning with a chaotic relationship with King Henry II, this was brought to an end by four knights who wanted to serve the King by committing murder. killed is now marked by a candle and has become a pilgrimage site for thousands of Christians every year.
3. The Cathedral Was Once Covered in Colour
Today, the Cathedral’s inside is mostly stone and stained glass, but it wasn’t always this way. In medieval times, artists decorated the walls with colourful paintings and detailed patterns. Over the years, these decorations faded or were removed. However, recent restoration work has found traces of the Cathedral’s colourful past. To learn what to see inside the Cathedrals, read our blog here: Things to see at Canterbury Cathedral.
4. It Houses the Oldest Depiction of Christ in England
The Cathedral has an early 7th-century painting that is the oldest known depiction picture of Christ in England. This painting was found during restoration work and is very important for both art historians and religious scholars. It shows us a bit of the early Christian art from the Anglo-Saxon period.
5. The Cathedral Has Its Own School
The King’s School, founded in 597 AD, is connected to Canterbury Cathedral and claims to be the world’s oldest school. It was first set up to provide singers for the Cathedral. Over the years, the school has grown and now offers a full education. But its close link with the Cathedral remains, and students often take part in services and events there.
Dover Castle, White Cliffs and Canterbury Guided Day Tour from London
From £110
Take a day trip from London to Canterbury and tour inside the Cathedral. Go to Dover and see the White Cliffs of Dover. And lastly visit Dover Castle including the secret war tunnels. Experience history, nature's beauty and religious design.
6. The Cathedral Features a Unique Baptismal Font
The baptismal font in the Cathedral is special. Shaped like the world and held up by four oxen, it’s made of solid black marble. These oxen stand for the four Gospel writers: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The font is a strong reminder of how far Christianity reaches around the world and the Anglican Communion.
7. The Cathedral Has Survived Multiple Disasters
Canterbury Cathedral has lasted through a lot. It has survived fires, bombings, and even the English Reformation, which destroyed many religious sites. During World War II, the Cathedral was a target in air raids, but it amazingly got through with only small damage. Its ability to last shows how important this sacred place remains.
The Historical Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is more than just an amazing building; it’s a living part of English history and Christian tradition. From its ancient beginnings to its colourful past, from being a pilgrimage site to surviving tough times, the Cathedral is full of stories waiting to be found. So, next time you visit, remember you’re not just stepping onto the floor of a normal building, but one that has seen 1,500 years of history. Learn about our Canterbury, Dover Castle and White Cliffs from London here.
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