Chair of St Augustine, Ceremonial throne in Canterbury Cathedral, England
The Chair of St Augustine is a marble seat in Canterbury Cathedral that serves as the official throne for archbishops during their enthronement. The work stands in the sanctuary area and features a design that reflects centuries of craftsmanship and religious significance.
The current version was made in 1204 after an earlier chair was destroyed by fire in 1174 during the cathedral's reconstruction. This fire made clear how vital this symbol was for the continuous leadership of the archbishops.
The chair bears the name of Saint Augustine, who brought Christianity to England, and it symbolizes the direct spiritual connection between the current archbishop and this early tradition. When you see it, you sense that this chair is more than just an object, but rather the center of the Anglican Church.
The chair is located in the cathedral's sanctuary area and can be viewed during regular opening hours throughout the year. It is best to follow the signage and remain respectful in this sacred space during your visit.
Part of the enthronement ceremony requires the archbishop to sit on three different chairs: in the choir, in the chapter house, and finally on this ancient seat. This triple ceremony is an unusual ritual that is rarely found across the Christian world.
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