St David's Cathedral
Wales
St David's Cathedral, located in St Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales, is a significant religious and historical landmark with origins dating back to the 6th century. Founded by Saint David, the cathedral stands on the site of an early monastic community that endured Viking raids and became a center of religious and intellectual life in medieval Britain. The current building, begun in 1181 and completed shortly after, features a blend of Gothic and Perpendicular architectural styles, with notable elements such as the fan-vaulted Holy Trinity chapel and an intricately carved stone known as the "Abraham Stone". Over centuries, the cathedral has been a pilgrimage destination, bolstered by papal privileges equating pilgrimages here to those to Rome and Jerusalem. Despite damage from natural disasters and political upheaval, including the destruction during the Commonwealth period, the cathedral has undergone significant restorations, notably in the 19th century by George Gilbert Scott. Today, it remains an active place of worship and pilgrimage, offering daily services, educational programs, and special events, preserving its rich spiritual and cultural legacy.
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Consiglio: Visitors are advised to plan their visit between 10:00 and 16:00 on weekdays or 13:00 to 15:00 on Sundays. Advance booking is recommended for special tours, such as the 'Tour of Rarely Seen Parts of St Davids Cathedral'. Donations are suggested for admission, and exploring the cathedral's online tours can enrich the experience. Spring and summer months typically offer the best weather for visiting the cathedral and surrounding city.
Fatti interessanti
- •The cathedral's floor slopes nearly four meters from east to west due to gradual shifting of the building.
- •Pope Calixtus II declared that two pilgrimages to St Davids equate to one pilgrimage to Rome, and three to one pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
- •The Abraham Stone, marking the grave of Bishop Abraham who was murdered in 1080, is an intricately carved Celtic artifact displayed in the cathedral exhibition.
- •The Holy Trinity chapel's fan vaulting is believed to have inspired the roof design of King's College, Cambridge.
- •William the Conqueror visited the site in 1081, recognizing its religious importance.
Storia
The site of St David's Cathedral was originally established as a monastic community by Saint David in the 6th century.
Throughout the early medieval period, it was repeatedly attacked by Vikings and other raiders, yet it remained a vital religious and intellectual center.
In 1115, under Norman rule, construction of a new cathedral began, consecrated in 1131.
The present cathedral structure was initiated in 1181, undergoing expansions and restorations over the centuries, including major 19th-century renovations by George Gilbert Scott.
The Commonwealth period saw significant damage, but the cathedral was restored and continues to serve as a place of worship and pilgrimage.
Guida del luogo
The Nave and Irish Oak Ceiling1530-1540
The nave features a remarkable roof and ceiling constructed between 1530 and 1540, showcasing exquisite Irish oak craftsmanship that highlights the cathedral's architectural heritage.
Holy Trinity ChapelEarly 16th century
Noted for its stunning fan vaulting, this chapel is a highlight of the cathedral's interior, reflecting Gothic architectural influences and possibly inspiring similar designs at King's College, Cambridge.
The Abraham Stone1080
A carved stone marking the grave of Bishop Abraham, who was killed in 1080. It displays early Celtic symbols and is a significant historical artifact preserved within the cathedral exhibition.
Bishops Palace Ruins14th century
The picturesque ruins of the Bishops Palace, constructed during the episcopacy of Bishop Gower (1328–1347), serve as a historic reminder of the cathedral's medieval past.
St Mary's College and Chantry1365
Founded in 1365 by Bishop Adam Houghton and John of Gaunt, this college and chantry include a cloister connecting to the cathedral, illustrating the cathedral's role in ecclesiastical education.
Contatto
Telefono: 01437 720202
