Chester Cathedral
Chester Cathedral is a Church of England cathedral and the mother church of the Diocese of Chester. It is located in the city of Chester, Cheshire, England. The cathedral, formerly the abbey church of a Benedictine monastery dedicated to Saint Werburgh, is dedicated to Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Since 1541, it has been the seat of the Bishop of Chester.
| Chester Cathedral | |
|---|---|
| Cathedral Church of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary | |
East side of the cathedral | |
Chester Cathedral Location in Chester | |
| 53°11′31″N 2°53′26″W | |
| Location | St Werburgh Street, Chester, Cheshire |
| Country | England |
| Denomination | Church of England |
| Previous denomination | Roman Catholic |
| Website | chestercathedral.com |
| History | |
| Dedication | Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary |
| Architecture | |
| Architect(s) | Richard Lenginour (1272–1314); Nicholas de Derneford (?)(1316–31); William Rediche(?) (1461–90s); Seth and George Derwall (1495–1530s); Thomas Harrison, George Gilbert Scott |
| Style | Romanesque, Gothic |
| Specifications | |
| Length | 355 feet (108 m) |
| Nave width | 75 feet (23 m) |
| Nave height | 78 feet (24 m) |
| Tower height | 127 feet (39 m) |
| Administration | |
| Province | York |
| Diocese | Chester |
| Clergy | |
| Bishop(s) | Mark Tanner |
| Dean | Tim Stratford |
| Canon(s) | Rosie Woodhall (Canon of Spirituality and Worship) |
| Canon Missioner | Jane Brooke (vice-dean) |
| Laity | |
| Director of music | Philip Rushforth Alex Lanigan-Palotai |
The cathedral is a Grade I listed building, and part of a heritage site that also includes the former monastic buildings to the north, which are also listed Grade I. The cathedral's construction dates from between the 10th century and the early 16th century, having been modified a number of times throughout history, a typical characteristic of English cathedrals; however, the site itself may have been used for Christian worship since Roman times. All the major styles of English medieval architecture, from Norman to Perpendicular, are represented in the present building.
The cathedral and former monastic buildings were extensively restored during the 19th century (amidst some controversy), and a free standing bell tower was added in the 20th century. In addition to holding services for Christian worship, the buildings are a major tourist attraction in Chester and the cathedral is used as a venue for concerts and exhibitions.