Church of St Mary Steps, Medieval church in West Street, Exeter, England
The Church of St Mary Steps is a medieval church on West Street built from local Heavitree stone and positioned beside a flight of steps. The building displays Gothic features and forms a distinctive landmark in Exeter's historic center.
Construction began around 1450 when Exeter was a major trading center, and the church became a landmark near the western gate of the city. It held significant importance for the religious and social structure of the old town over the following centuries.
The church serves as a gathering place for Exeter's community and connects people through regular worship and shared traditions. Visitors notice how this space shapes the daily rhythm of the neighborhood and brings neighbors together.
The location is easily accessible on foot and situated near other historic sites in the city center. Visitors should note that services happen at set times and the building may sometimes be used for private events.
Directly across the street stands a famous building that was physically moved to its current location in 1961, making it an unusual neighbor. This relocation was an engineering achievement and remains an interesting piece of local history.
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