ARCHITECTURE
Wells Cathedral is an Anglican church in Wells, England built between 1175-1490. This is significant architecturally in that this is a wholly Gothic church. We were greeted by a lovely guide who gave us insight into this awe-inspiring church. I was most in awe of the Chapel house in it's octagonal shape with a massive palm-tree-like central column. Light streams in from the tracery shaped windows and niches are cut out along the parameter for seating.
|
Adjacent to the cathedral is the cathedral school. While walking through the campus, we could hear the kids practicing thier instruments. A student introduced me to Tatiana the cat who is very old and likes to hang around the campus.
Lacock
Lacock was developed in the Middle Ages although most of the buildings are 18th century. It is a well preserved village because it was owned by one family until recently and is now owned by the National Trust. The picture with the interior beams is a 14th century tithe barn. Timbers are 600-700 year old English oak. They were cut green and have seasoned into a very hard wood.
This village is very tiny and doesn’t appear to have the usual touristy joints.
For you Pride and Prejudice fans of the infamous 1995 BBC film version (the one with Colin Firth in a wet shirt), this village was used in that film.
This village is very tiny and doesn’t appear to have the usual touristy joints.
For you Pride and Prejudice fans of the infamous 1995 BBC film version (the one with Colin Firth in a wet shirt), this village was used in that film.
Stokesay Castle
Stokesay Castle is a manor house built in the 13th century. It just amazes me that this is still standing!
York Minster
York Minster cathedral, located in York, England, began construction in 1260’s. We were very fortunate to get the best guide, according to Roy. I was most fascinated with her story of the "Five Sisters Window". The 13 century window was removed during WWI with the threat of the Zeppelin raids. The window was restored after WWI and paid for mostly by women to honor the women’s sacrifices during the war. I also loved the simplicity of the stained glass with its grey glass and geometric bright colored designs.
With the prompting of Roy, many of us came back that evening for their Evensong. We sat in the choir stalls and enjoyed a very peaceful service.
With the prompting of Roy, many of us came back that evening for their Evensong. We sat in the choir stalls and enjoyed a very peaceful service.