Chichester Cathedral 


In 1075, reorganization of the diocese following the Norman Conquest saw Chichester elevated to an episcopal see. Work is thought to have started on the cathedral in about 1088, and records show the choir to have been consecrated in 1108.
Building however continued right up to the 15th century, passing through several phases of evolution in the Romanesque and Gothic styles. By 1123 the east end of the Norman nave and the transepts had been constructed; and by mid century the four west bays of the nave and the lower story of the southwest tower were also complete. A fire in 1186 caused the wooden roof to be replaced by Early Gothic ribbed vaulting. The southwest tower was finished at the beginning of the 13th century, the spire over the crossing around 1400. To house the cathedral's heavy bells a detached belfry was built early in the 15th century. Even this was to prove inadequate however, collapsing in 1861 and being rebuilt five years later.
Building however continued right up to the 15th century, passing through several phases of evolution in the Romanesque and Gothic styles. By 1123 the east end of the Norman nave and the transepts had been constructed; and by mid century the four west bays of the nave and the lower story of the southwest tower were also complete. A fire in 1186 caused the wooden roof to be replaced by Early Gothic ribbed vaulting. The southwest tower was finished at the beginning of the 13th century, the spire over the crossing around 1400. To house the cathedral's heavy bells a detached belfry was built early in the 15th century. Even this was to prove inadequate however, collapsing in 1861 and being rebuilt five years later.
Hobbies & Activities category: Architecture - Medieval; Towers, monuments, observation deck; Architecture - Gothic; Historic site; Christian sites
Chichester Cathedral Highlights
Cloister
The irregularly shaped cloister on the south side of the cathedral allows excellent views of the spire and nave. The statue on the grass beside the nave is by Henry Moore.Interior
The interior of the late Norman/early Gothic Trinity Cathedral is furnished with a wealth of medieval and modern art. The font (1983), seen to the right on entering the west porch, is by John
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Chichester Cathedral
The Royal Chantry
Cathedral Cloisters
Chichester PO19 1PX
United Kingdom
The Royal Chantry
Cathedral Cloisters
Chichester PO19 1PX
United Kingdom
| May 1 to September 30 | ||||||||
| Open | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | |
| Closed | 19:00 | 19:00 | 19:00 | 19:00 | 19:00 | 19:00 | 19:00 | |
| October 1 to April 30 | ||||||||
| Open | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | 7:30 | |
| Closed | 17:00 | 17:00 | 17:00 | 17:00 | 17:00 | 17:00 | 17:00 | |
Disabled
Full facilities for persons with disabilities.
Guides
Guided tour included with admission.
Attractions Near Chichester Cathedral, Chichester
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