St. Edmunds King & Martyr Parish Church, New Road, Medieval parish church in Crickhowell, Wales
St. Edmund's Church is a parish church with a cruciform layout that has a chancel, nave, two transepts, and a shingled spire containing five bells. The structure shows how medieval builders created separate spaces within one building, with dedicated areas for different functions and family chapels.
The building underwent major changes around 1765, when decay led to the removal of two side aisles from its original larger form. This fundamental alteration shaped how the building looks today and shows how medieval churches had to adapt over time.
The south transept chapel, known as the Rumsey Chapel, and the north transept chapel, called the Gwernvale Chapel, show connections to local family estates. These chapels reflect how important local noble families were to this place, creating burial and memorial spaces within its walls.
You can reach this place via New Road, the main street running through Crickhowell town center with clear markings. The building is typically open during the day, though it is actively used for services and events, so visiting at quieter times is often more comfortable.
Inside the chancel are carved stone effigies of Sir John Herbert and his wife Joan, along with a knight shown wearing mail armor. These sculpted tombs reveal the craftsmanship of the past and honor people who were important to this community.
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