Medieval & Religion site on Churches~Cathedrals,Castles

Some History Behind Chester Cathedral

Chester Cathedral is the mother church of the Church of England, and is located in the city of Chester,Cheshire, England.
The Cathedral, formerly St Werburgh's abbey church of a Benedictine monastery, is dedicated to Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Since 1541 it has been the centre of worship, administration, ceremony and music for the city and diocese. The cathedral is a Grade 1 listed building and the heritage site, including the former monastic buildings, lying to the north of the cathedral is also listed Grade 1.
The cathedral, typical of English cathedrals in having been modified many times, dates from between 1093 and the early 1500s, although the site itself may have been used for Christian worship since Roman times.
All the major styles of English medieval architecture, from Norman to Perpenicular are represented in the present building.The cathedral and monastic buildings were extensively restored during the 19th century, and a free-standing bell-tower was added in the 20th century.
The buildings are a major tourist attraction in Chester, a city of historic, cultural and architectural importance. The cathedral is also used as a venue for concerts and exhibitions.
The cathedral is a place of Christian worship, with three services held daily, and five each Sunday. There is Holy Communion each day, and Choral Evensong each day except Wednesday.
The cathedral organises a programme of events, including bible studies, weekly organ recitals, concerts and exhibitions. Every five years, the cathedral is a venue for the Chester Mystery Plays,a cycle of medieval plays,traditionally performed by the townsfolk.



                                Chester Cathedral History Chart

AD

70
Chester founded as a Roman fortress

907
St Werburgh's Minster founded

1092
Minster turned into a Benedictine abbey

1250
Norman church rebuilt on Gothic lines

1540
Monastery dissolved by Henry VIII, church finished

1541
Diocese of Chester created, church given back and renamed Cathedral Church of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary

1868
Restoration by Sir George Gilbert Scott

1881
South transept no longer used as a parish church

1921 - 27
Stained glass added to Cathedral cloisters

1961
The Carter Shapland west window introduced into the nave

1975
New bell tower opened
Choir School Closed

1992
Undercroft discovered. Westminster windows installed. 900th anniversary of the founding of St Werburgh's Abbey

1996
Restoration of Main Nave floor, and under floor heating begun