Updated May 25, 2023
A Brief Overview of Lincoln Cathedral
Lincoln Cathedral, officially the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lincoln, is a medieval Anglican cathedral in Lincoln, England. It is the third-largest church building in the world and the seat of the Bishop of Lincoln in the Church of England. The cathedral is famous for its impressive Gothic architecture, mainly its tall spires and large stained glass windows. It is also the resting place of the remains of King Richard III and the site of a memorial service for the victims of the Lincolnshire Rising in 1536. The cathedral has been a place of worship since 1072 and is one of the most visited heritage sites in the United Kingdom.
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History Of Lincoln Cathedral
Lincoln Cathedral is a medieval Anglican cathedral located in Lincoln, England. The Bishop of Lincoln seated on this and the Diocese of Lincoln, the mother church in the Church of England. The present building was constructed in the Early English Gothic style between 1088 and 1300 and was one of the most significant buildings in Europe for many centuries.
The Whitefriars Priory was the first building on the site, founded in 1072 by William I, the Conqueror. Norman Cathedral replaced this in 1092, and an earthquake destroyed it in 1185. Around 1300 the cathedral was completed, and until the spire collapsed in 1549 was the tallest building in the world. It was extensively restored in the 19th century and is now a Grade I-listed building. It is renowned for its impressive architecture, stained glass, and the Lincoln Imp, a unique sculpture of a mischievous imp. The cathedral is also famous for its part in the Magna Carta of 1215, in which the Chapter House sealed it.
Features
- Built in the 13th century, Lincoln Cathedral is an iconic example of English Gothic architecture. The cathedral is an impressive structure, boasting a vast spire that stands at over 300 feet, the world’s tallest Gothic spire. In addition to its impressive size, the cathedral is known for its intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and impressive vaulted ceilings.
- Visitors can find several significant artifacts and pieces of artwork, such as the Lincoln Imp, a carving of a mischievous imp initially created in the 13th century. Other items of note include the 12th-century font and the 14th-century choir stalls.
- The cathedral is also home to the Lincoln Cathedral Library, which houses some rare books and manuscripts, some of which are pretty old, around the 9th century.
- The cathedral includes several other attractions, including the Bishop’s Palace, the Eastgate, and the Stonebow, dating back to the 13th century.
- The cathedral is also home to events throughout the year, such as the Lincoln Christmas Market, the Lincoln International Music Festival, and the Lincoln Arts & Culture Festival.
Modern history
The history of Lincoln Cathedral dates back to 1072, when William the Conqueror ordered the construction of a new cathedral on the site of a former Saxon church. The cathedral was consecrated in 1092 and was one of the most significant buildings in Europe at the time.
In the 16th century, the cathedral was damaged during the English Reformation and underwent significant restoration work. The central spire was also added during this period, although a storm destroyed it in 1549.
The cathedral underwent further restoration during the 18th and 19th centuries and added new features, such as a library and an organ.
In the 20th century, Lincoln Cathedral became a popular tourist attraction and underwent further renovations. In the 21st century, the cathedral is still a significant draw for visitors, who come to admire its stunning architecture and the history of the building.
Music
Musicologist John Harper has described the music of Lincoln Cathedral as “some of the most inspiring and beautiful music in the world.” The cathedral is renowned for its choral music and has a long and distinguished history of singing, stretching back over 800 years. The cathedral choir is one of the longest-established choirs in England and has been singing since the 12th century. The choir sings various music, from traditional Anglican choral to contemporary compositions.
Conclusion
Lincoln Cathedral is an impressive testament to the power of faith and craftsmanship. Its soaring Gothic spires, and beautiful stained glass windows provide a striking backdrop to the city of Lincoln. At the same time, its long and varied history, over 900 years, inspires and awes visitors worldwide. With a rich past and a vibrant present, Lincoln Cathedral is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city.
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