Winchester Cathedral, Anglican cathedral in Winchester, England
Winchester Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral in Winchester, England, extending over 170 meters and combining Norman architecture with Gothic elements. The interior shows elaborate stone vaults, decorated ceilings and a long main hall with massive columns.
Bishop Walkelin began construction in 1079 to replace the Old Minster, and work continued until 1532. Over the centuries, Norman sections were renewed with Gothic and perpendicular forms, while the core structure remained.
Jane Austen was buried in the cathedral on 24 July 1817; her grave slab in the north aisle does not mention her writing. The memorial brass and stained-glass window were added later by admirers. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Swithun, whose shrine stood here before the Reformation.
The cathedral opens Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm and Sunday from 12:30pm to 3pm, with guided tours offered regularly. Visitors can explore the entire building, though some areas may close during services.
Diver William Walker worked underwater for six years to secure the foundations, placing concrete bags beneath the building. Without his work, the cathedral might have collapsed, as the ground below was wet and unstable.
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