The Hanging Chapel, Medieval church building in Langport, England
The Hanging Chapel is a medieval church in Langport featuring a 13th-century archway with a pointed barrel vault that stands above what was once the town's east gate. The structure showcases typical medieval construction with its distinctive arches and supporting framework.
The building was founded in 1201 as a religious structure and later served as a town hall during the late 16th century. This transformation shows how the town adapted the space for its administrative needs.
Today the building functions as a masonic lodge, though it once served as a grammar school, Sunday school, and museum. Its changing purposes reflect how the town adapted the space to meet different needs over time.
The chapel sits in the town center and is accessible through the historic archway. Be aware that vehicle traffic occasionally passes through and causes damage, so take care when visiting.
Archaeological excavations in the 1990s uncovered remains of an ancient Saxon defensive bank beneath the building. This reveals that the location held importance long before the medieval chapel was constructed.
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