Church of St Mary, Medieval parish church in Ilkeston, United Kingdom
St Mary Church is a medieval parish church with a stone exterior featuring Norman arches in the south arcade and a tower erected in 1731. Inside, an early 14th-century chancel screen and various monuments from different periods fill the interior space.
The building was founded around 1150 with its oldest features visible in three Norman arches from the late 12th century. These elements mark an architectural shift that occurred in the early medieval period.
The church holds a stone effigy and chest tomb of Sir Nicholas de Cantilupe from the 13th century, showing how medieval nobility in this region were commemorated. The craftsmanship and placement reveal the customs and values of that era.
The church sits in Ilkeston town centre and is easily reached on foot. Visiting hours should be checked beforehand as it remains an active place of worship with regular services.
The building houses an organ from 1831 that originally stood in Paddington and was reportedly played by composer Mendelssohn. This historical instrument connects the church to important musical figures of the 19th century.
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