Canterbury Cathedral

About

Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most important and magnificent churches in the Christian world. Founded in 597 AD by St Augustine, who was sent from Rome to bring Christianity to Anglo-Saxon England, it has served as the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury for more than 1,400 years. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral attracts visitors from around the globe and stands as a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The cathedral is perhaps best known for the dramatic murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170. Becket was killed by four knights inside the cathedral after a conflict with King Henry II, and his martyrdom transformed Canterbury into one of medieval Europe’s greatest pilgrimage destinations. This historic event later inspired Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous Canterbury Tales. Inside, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking nave with soaring Gothic arches and beautiful stained-glass windows, some dating back to the twelfth century. One of the highlights is the Trinity Chapel, where pilgrims once gathered to honour Thomas Becket. Nearby, the site of Becket’s shrine remains a place of great historical significance.

Canterbury United Kingdom

Location

Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England, serving as the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Founded originally in the late sixth century and magnificently rebuilt in Gothic and Norman styles after a devastating fire, this breathtaking cathedral is world-renowned for its stunning medieval stained-glass windows, soaring stone vaults, and profound history as the site of Thomas Becket's martyrdom. Location: Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, CT1 2EH, Kent, England, United Kingdom. It sits right in the historic heart of Canterbury enclosed by the medieval city walls. Because of its prime central position in Kent, visiting the cathedral places you close to a wealth of wonderful historic landmarks and cultural attractions. A short walk through the medieval streets brings you to the fascinating Canterbury Roman Museum, the historic ruins of St Augustine's Abbey, and the ancient St Martin's Church, which is the oldest continuously used parish church in the English-speaking world. Heading slightly further into the city allows you to explore the Westgate Gardens and Museum, or take a peaceful boat tour along the scenic River Stour.