Wells Cathedral, Anglican cathedral in Wells, England
Wells Cathedral is a 12th-century Gothic church in southwest England, known for its stone west front decorated with over 300 sculptures. The building rises 55 meters high and shows a cross-shaped plan with three aisles, tall pointed arches, and a courtyard surrounded by medieval buildings.
Building work started in 1175 under Bishop Reginald de Bohun and created the first fully Gothic choir in Europe. In the 14th century, large scissor arches were added to support the sinking towers and secure the structure.
The name comes from natural springs that have flowed through the town for centuries, giving the place its identity. Visitors today experience the sound of daily choral singing that echoes through the tall vaults, making the acoustics of the space something you can feel.
The church opens in the morning from 7 AM and stays accessible until evening, with guided tours offered throughout the day. Access to the library is possible on request and provides insight into historical manuscripts and collections.
In the choir aisle stands Europe's second oldest working clock from the 14th century, where mechanical knights strike the bells every quarter hour. The astronomical display shows the moon phases and was originally fitted with figures that reenacted a medieval jousting tournament.
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Bishop's Palace and Bishop's House
135 m
Wells and Mendip Museum
79 m
Penniless Porch, Wells
106 m
Chain Gate, Wells
54 m
The Bishop's Eye, Wells
121 m
Chapter House of Wells Cathedral
38 m
Well House, Bishop's Palace, Wells
113 m
1-13, Vicars' Close
134 m
Vicar's Hall including No. 28 Vicars' Close
63 m
1, St Andrew Street
76 m
Gatehouse of the Bishop's Palace
119 m
23, Market Place
116 m
25, Market Place
104 m
14-27, Vicars' Close
113 m
Tower House
114 m
The Rib
95 m
21, Market Place
119 m
19, Market Place
123 m
Boundary walls to Numbers 14-27, Vicars' Close
123 m
Cloisters To Cathedral Church Of St Andrew
73 m
Number 1 With Front Boundary Railings
104 m
Triple Lamp Standard Adjacent To Boundary Wall Opposite Wells Museum
65 m
Triple Lamp Standard Approximately 25 Metres To West Of South West Tower
69 m
Boundary Walls To Numbers 1-13
123 m
Wells Museum
81 m
Boundary walls of the Bishop's Palace
119 m
Old Deanery Court With Link Wall Along East Side
126 m
Gatehouse And Boundary Wall With Bridge Over Moat listed building
119 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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