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 Etched glass over corridor |
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 Oldest clock in England |
 Gate leading to cathedral |
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Salisbury
Cathedral
History of the cathedral
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Etched glass over corridor |
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Oldest clock in England |
Gate leading to cathedral |
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The Salisbury Cathedral was built between 1220 and 1258 on a green field site by the River Avon. It is the second cathedral in Salisbury. The move from the original cathedral at Old Sarum, 2 miles away, was the result of the crowded nature of the site, the difficulty in obtaining water and conflicts with the soldiers occupying the fort. Salisbury is unusual among English cathedrals in that it was built in one continuous operation and in a single style (Early English Gothic). The tower and spire were added later, most probably between 1280 and 1320. A cathedral gets its name from the Bishop's 'cathedra,' the Greek word for chair. The Bishop's Chair (or throne) reflects his role as the chief teacher of the Christian faith in the diocese. |
The Salisbury Cathedral clock was made in or before 1386. It is the oldest existing clock in England and almost certainly the earliest remaining mechanical clock in the world in virtually complete and working condition. Like all clocks of that date it has no face, but strikes the hours on a bell in the triforium. It was used for almost 500 years until 1884 when it was superseded by the present tower click. In 1956 it was repaired and restored to its original condition and set up inside the cathedral. |