The Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

The Canterbury Cathedral in Canterbury, England is one of the best known religious sites in the world. A major pilgrimage center since the late Middle Ages and a popular tourist destination for centuries, it has been a part of the fabric of English culture for centuries. This Canterbury Cathedral travel guide will provide you with interesting facts and information, as well as tips for your visit. Whether you’re a history buff, would-be pilgrim, or just looking for a day out, this guide will provide you with all you need to know before you go.

Interesting Facts About The Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury

Cathedral

1. The cathedral has the oldest working clock in Europe. That clock was installed in 1386, and visitors can still hear the chime of the hourly clock today.

2. The Cathedral is home to the oldest library in the UK. Built in the 12th century, the library is open to the public and contains thousands of manuscripts and books dating from the middle ages.

3. The building has been designated as a World Heritage Site since 1988. This recognizes the site as a valuable cultural and historic heritage.

4. The Cathedral is thought to be the oldest still active Anglican religious building in the world.

5. The stained glass windows of the Cathedral are some of the most famous in England. Not only are they aesthetically beautiful, but they also tell stories and represent essential elements of the Christian faith.

6. Some of the cathedrals tombs and monuments are incredibly old, with some dating back to before the Norman Conquest of 1066.

7. The Cathedral is home to relics of St. Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury that was killed by order of King Henry II in 1170.

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History & Information About The Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury

The Canterbury Cathedral, located in Canterbury, England, is one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in the world. It is the mother church of the worldwide Anglican Communion and has been the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury since the year 597. The cathedral has a long history, with some of its parts dating back nearly 1300 years.

The site of the Cathedral has been used for Christian worship since the sixth century. It was originally constructed as a monastic church and was dedicated to Saint Augustine, mostly likely by Archbishop Justus. In 1077, the cathedral was enlarged and rebuilt by the Normans under the supervision of Lanfranc, the Archbishop of Canterbury.

The north and south transepts were later added in the late twelfth century by Archbishop Hubert Walter. The ground floor of the central tower was built in the thirteenth century, but the tower was not completed until the fifteenth century.

Over the years, the Cathedral underwent many changes and additions, making it a mix of different architectural styles, such as Norman, Gothic, and Perpendicular. The most recent addition to the Cathedral is the modernization of the Western façade, which was completed in the early twentieth century.

Another important addition to Canterbury Cathedral is the tomb of St. Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury who was assassinated in 1170. It is one of England’s most sacred sites and visitors still leave offerings at his shrine in remembrance of his martyrdom.

The Canterbury Cathedral also has many important works of art, including the magnificent stained glass windows that were installed between the fifteenth and seventeenth centuries. Other items of interest include the elaborate Canterbury Choir, the restored Great Staircase, and the Sub-Crypt, which houses the largest collection of ancient remains in Europe.

The Cathedral is a popular destination for tourists and is well known as a pilgrimage site. It is currently on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is an important source of national and regional identity for many UK citizens.

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Travel Guide For Visiting The Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury

, England

The Canterbury Cathedral, in Canterbury, England, is a place of great historical significance. It has been a site of pilgrimage since 1170 and remains the center of focal for worshippers seeking spiritual truth and understanding. While the history of Canterbury Cathedral is incredibly deep and its presence in the area for almost a 1000 years can be intimidating to some, the experience of visiting such a majestic place can be an incredibly rewarding and awe-inspiring experience.

If you’re visiting Canterbury Cathedral, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Getting There:

Canterbury Cathedral is located in Canterbury, England. It is most easily accessed by car or train, and is only a short distance from London.

Hours and Entrance Fees:

The Cathedral is open to visitors from Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm, from April to September and from Monday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm, from October to March. Admission is free, although if you wish to visit the main parts of the Cathedral there is a small fee of £6 for adults and £3 for under 16s, students and pensioners.

Things to Do:

There are a number of activities for visitors to the Cathedral. One can explore the Cathedral’s many galleries, chapels, and tombs, or simply wander around and soak up the atmosphere. There are daily services that visitors can attend, as well as an extensive library of resources for students and other scholars. Additionally, visitors can take a guided tour of the Cathedral and learn about its long, rich history.

Tips:

• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot to explore at the Cathedral and it can take a few hours to properly explore everything on offer.
• Consider visiting with a local guide who can provide insight into the history and significance of the Cathedral.
• If you arrive during service times make sure to be respectful and be aware that the sermon might be in progress.
• Don’t forget to bring a camera! The Cathedral is a beautiful and photogenic place.

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury

Q1. Where is the Canterbury Cathedral located?

A1. The Canterbury Cathedral is located in Canterbury, Kent, England.

Q2. When was the Canterbury Cathedral built?

A2. The Canterbury Cathedral was originally built in 597AD and has since been revised and rebuilt many times over the centuries.

Q3. Who built the Canterbury Cathedral?

A3. The original Canterbury Cathedral was constructed by an Italian monk, St. Augustine.

Q4. What is the main feature of the Canterbury Cathedral?

A4. The Main feature of the Canterbury Cathedral is its spectacle and magnificence of ancient Gothic architecture. It has many intriguing features, including a vast collection of stained glass windows, intricately detailed traceries, and several statues of the Saints.

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