Dominating the city center is the Bath Abbey, officially known as the Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. This former Norman Cathedral, founded in 1090, was originally the site of a 7th century convent on lands granted to the monks of Saint Peter. In 973, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York crowned Edgar as "...the first effective King of England" in this church. Five hundred years later, the Norman Cathedral had fallen into disrepair. So, Bishop Oliver King had it demolished and replaced with the present Abbey. Remnants of that former Norman Cathedral (i.e. Pillar bases) can still be seen on the left side of the high altar. Today, nearly a half-million visitors per year explore this wonderful historical site. For us, seeing this Abbey met two of our primary travel goals; visiting the great churches of the world; and enjoying ancient history. This is a "Must See" if ever you come to Bath, England. While admission to the Abbey is "free", staff do ask for a donation (Two GBP) to help maintain the structure. It is entirely up to you to make the donation...or not.
www.bathabbey.org for further information.
www.bathabbey.org for further information.
Street level view of the front of the Abbey.
In this side view of the Abbey, the flying buttresses are quite evident.
One of my favorite features are these wonderfully carved wooden entrance doors.
Looking at this statue of Saint Peter, the head seems a bit off. That is because long ago it broke off and the Mason's repairing it took a short cut by not adding a neck.
On the other side of the main door, the statue of Saint Paul is more normal looking.
The "Great Window" at the east end of the Abbey, above the high altar depicts 56 scenes from the life of Christ.
Here is a closer view of some of the Great Window's panels.
On the north side of the central aisle is the tomb of James Montague, who was the Bishop of Bath and Wells (1608-1616).
There are many tomb plaques on the floor of the Abbey, including this one of W. Powell, et al, from the 1700's
This side chapel is dedicated to Saint Alphege (954-1012.), who served as Abbott in Bath, and later became the Archbishop of Canterbury
We loved the elegance of the wood carvings on the pews...
...as well as the beautifully sculptured ceiling.
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