Exeter Cathedral

The Exeter Cathedral has stood here in central Exeter for nearly 1000 years. Construction began in 1114, with significant additions and rebuilding between 1270 and 1350. The cathedral combines Norman and Gothic styles, indicative of its evolutions over time. Norman architechture is characterized by its thick stone walls and small windows. The style is more rudimentary, in contrast with the more ornimental style of the Gothic. Exeter Cathedral features two tall towers flanking the central aisle, which are Norman and are the oldest parts of the Cathedral. The windows are small, in contrast with the large stained glass windows added later. The Gothic architechture appears predominantly in the center of the Cathedral, and includes the large Great East Window (on the right) which features the images of saints, including Saint Peter in the center. Exeter Cathedral boasts the longest continuous vault of any Cathedral, as it is benefitted by the stability of the Norman towers. Also notable in the Cathedral are the bosses, or the ornate carved icons on the ceiling. The Cathedral was extensively bombed during World War II, leading to a reconstruction in the 1940s and 1950s. Some of the windows on one side are clear panes of glass, which were put up to memorialize the event.

Read more about the Cathedral's artwork here. Read more about "Hickory Dickory Dock" and it's connection to the Cathedral here. Read more about the Cathedral during WWII here. Plan your visit to the Cathedral here.