The first history of all the English cathedrals, from Birmingham and Bury St Edmunds to Worcester and York Minster England’s sixty-two Anglican and Catholic cathedrals are some of our most iconic buildings, attracting millions of worshippers and visitors every year. Yet although much has been written about their architecture, there is no complete history of their life and activities. This is the first such book to provide one, stretching from Roman times to the present day. The History of England’s Cathedrals explains where and why they were founded, who staffed them, and how their structures evolved. It describes their worship and how this changed over the centuries, their schools and libraries, and their links with the outside world. The history of these astonishing buildings is the history of England. Reading this book will bring you face to face with the Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, Normans, Reformation, Civil War, Victorian England, World War Two, and finally modern democracy.

England's cathedrals are the nation's glory. They tower over its landscape, outranking palaces, castles and mansions. They attract roughly half the nation's population each year. For a millennium they have been objects of pilgrimage for those seeking faith, consolation and beauty. Still at the start of the twenty-first century, they remain unequalled in their size and splendour. More than any other English institution, cathedrals reflect the vicissitudes of history and should be treasured as such. They are custodians of culture and of the rituals of civic life. They offer welfare and relieve suffering. They uplift spirits with their beauty. In a real sense they are still what they were when first built a millennium ago, a glimpse of the sublime. Gloriously illustrated throughout, England's Cathedrals not only offers us a companion to England's Thousand Best Churches, it takes us on an enthralling tour of the nation and its history, through some of our most astonishing buildings.

The Cathedrals of Great Britain is a work by P. H. Ditchfield. It delves into the architecture and history of British cathedrals. Excerpt: "In our cathedrals we have endless varieties of plan, construction, style and adornment, as well as in the associations connected with their histories. They derive their name from the Latin word Cathedra (Greek, [Greek: Kathedra]), signifying a seat, a cathedral church being that particular church of the diocese where the bishop's seat or throne is placed. If this church belonged to a monastery it was served by the monks, but many of our cathedrals were in the hands of secular canons, who were not monks, and should not be confused with the "regular" clergy."

The first history of all the English cathedrals, from Birmingham and Bury St Edmunds to Worcester and York Minster England's sixty-two Anglican and Catholic cathedrals are some of our most iconic buildings, attracting millions of worshippers and visitors every year. Yet although much has been written about their architecture, there is no complete history of their life and activities. This is the first such book to provide one, stretching from Roman times to the present day. The History of England's Cathedrals explains where and why they were founded, who staffed them, and how their structures evolved. It describes their worship and how this changed over the centuries, their schools and libraries, and their links with the outside world. The history of these astonishing buildings is the history of England. Reading this book will bring you face to face with the Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, Normans, Reformation, Civil War, Victorian England, World War Two, and finally modern democracy.

'Cathedrals under Siege' is the story of our greatest churches during the seventeenth century - the most perilous episode in their history. During the Civil War and Commonwealth, they were attacked, desecrated and abolished as institutions, just managing to survive to be restored with Charles II in 1660. This book reviews these great events along with the quieter periods in the early and later parts of the centuries. It examines all aspects of cathedral history - buildings, clergy, finances, music and literature - breaking new ground in the first ever study of cathedrals in this important century.

Explore the majestic beauty and rich history of the cathedrals of Great Britain with "The Cathedrals of Great Britain: Their History and Architecture Unveiled" by P. H. Ditchfield. Join him on a captivating journey through the ages as he unveils the stories behind these magnificent architectural wonders. As Ditchfield's narrative unfolds, prepare to be transported to a time of awe and splendor, where faith and craftsmanship converged to create some of the most iconic landmarks in British history. From soaring spires to intricate stained glass windows, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and timeless elegance of these sacred spaces. But amidst the grandeur and majesty, a deeper story emerges: What if the cathedrals are more than just architectural marvels? Prepare to discover the spiritual significance and cultural significance of these sacred sites as Ditchfield delves into their history, symbolism, and enduring legacy. Are you ready to embark on a journey through the heart and soul of British architecture and spirituality? Experience the power of Ditchfield's storytelling as he brings to life the remarkable history and exquisite craftsmanship of the cathedrals. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about the cultural heritage of Great Britain, this book offers a captivating exploration of the cathedrals' enduring allure. Will you dare to uncover the hidden secrets and untold stories hidden within the walls of these sacred monuments? Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of British history and architecture, where each chapter of Ditchfield's book reveals a new facet of the cathedrals' fascinating past. Whether you're admiring the intricate carvings of Westminster Abbey or marveling at the Gothic splendor of York Minster, prepare to be inspired and enlightened by the timeless beauty of these architectural masterpieces. Don't miss your chance to discover the history and architecture of the cathedrals of Great Britain with P. H. Ditchfield as your guide. Let his evocative prose and meticulous research transport you to a world of wonder and reverence, where the echoes of the past resonate in every stone. Seize the opportunity to own a piece of architectural history. Purchase "The Cathedrals of Great Britain" now and embark on an unforgettable journey through the ages, where the splendor of the past meets the promise of the future.

A historical and architectural guide to the most famous cathedrals in England

England is blessed with many beautiful cathedrals, including the world-renowned Durham, with its geometrically carved pillars; Wells, with its astonishingly graceful scissor arch; and the gloriously uplifting Ely and its octagonal tower. This book is a highly readable account of the history of England's cathedrals, from Anglo-Saxon times to the present day. It discusses their significance, from a time when faith was an integral part of everyday life, to the present, more secular society. It also discusses the developments in cathedral architecture over the centuries and the English cathedral city.