Towering over the city skyline, Durham Cathedral is one of the most awe-inspiring examples of Norman architecture in Europe. This magnificent edifice has stood as a spiritual and cultural landmark for over 900 years.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1093 under the orders of the Prince Bishop William de St-Calais. It was built in the Norman Romanesque style, with massive stone walls, sturdy pillars, and soaring arched ceilings. The nave is over 500 feet long and nearly 80 feet high at the vaulted ceiling.
The cathedral’s most iconic feature is the central tower, which reaches 218 feet into the sky. Atop the tower sits a striking metal sculpture added in the 20th century that depicts the Sanctuary Ring, an ancient symbol of peace and safety.
Inside, visitors are awed by the cathedral’s sheer scale and ornate stone decorations. The vaulted ceiling stretches seemingly into infinity, while columns adorned with carved figures and patterns draw the eye in every direction. The cathedral’s stained glass windows, some dating back over 600 years, cast the interior in a kaleidoscope of vibrant colours.
Be sure to explore the medieval cloisters, which allowed monks to move between buildings while remaining sheltered from the weather. The cloisters contain incredibly detailed stone carvings and the Monks’ Dormitory is largely intact from the 12th century.
Durham Cathedral has been a centre of religious life for centuries and also served as a secure protective fortress in times of conflict. It has served as the filming location for many movies and TV shows portraying medieval times. This architectural and cultural treasure is truly a must-see for visitors to Northeast England.
