York Minster in York England

The Largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe

Oct 24, 2007

Known as the Minster, this cathedral which dominates the skyline of York Great Britain, is a masterpiece of architecture and ancient stained glass windows.

First Church of York Minster

The first church, built in 627AD, was wooden and constructed for the baptism of Edwin, the King of Northumbria. Oswald replaced this structure by a stone church in 637AD but it quickly fell into disrepair. When Saint Wilfred moved to York Minster from Hexam, he had the buildings repaired. In the following centuries, additions were made and invasions or fires destroyed much of the work. In 1154, the church was repaired and the chapel was built in the Norman style.

Construction of York Minster Cathedral

The most significant transformation occurred in 1215 when the Archbishop ordered the construction of a Gothic structure. The north and south transepts were built along with the central tower. Building continued into the 15th century. The central tower collapsed in the early 1400s so a new one was built in 1420. The western towers were added on a few years later. The cathedral was considered complete and was consecrated in 1472.

New floors were laid in the late 18th century and major restoration was commissioned in 1802. In 1829 and 1840 there were fires that caused extensive damage and the church fell into financial ruin. In 1858, a man by the name of Augustus Duncome was successful in reviving the cathedral. Restoration continued during the 20th century and still continues today.

York Minster East Transept

At the East End (transept) of York Minster, there are the Choir aisles and the High Altar. In this area, is the seat for the Bishop of York. The Choir Screen, built in the 15th century, is extremely interesting because it displays statues of 15 kings of England. While in the Choir area, visitors can peek down into the undercroft.

York Minster Lady Chapel

The Lady Chapel features the largest stained glass window in the world. It is the size of a football field and depicts the beginning and the end of the world. In total, it contains 117 individual panels of glass.

York Minster Lantern Tower

The Lantern tower is visible at the junction of the north and south wings of the church. In order to appreciate the beautiful artwork in this lofty tower, a mirror is provided so visitors can have a better view.

York Minster South Transept

At the South transept, visitors can see the circular Rose window situated above the door. This window signifies the end to the War of The Roses. In this area, visitors will find the entrance to the Undercroft where they can climb below the church to see the support pillars plus artifacts dating back to the Roman era. The entrance to the Central Tower is situated in this wing. People who are not claustrophobic can enjoy a spectacular view after climbing 279 spiral stairs.

York Minster North Transept

The North Transept features the Five Sisters window which is a merging of five narrow windows. Built in the mid 1300s, this is the largest lancet window in the world. The unusual Hindley clock is located in the North wing. It was made in 1749 and features two oak carved figures called “quarter jacks” who strike the bell every 15 minutes. In 1955, the Astronomical Clock was installed as a memorial to the airmen operating from bases in Yorkshire, Durham, and Northumberland who were killed in action during World War II.

York Minster Chapter House

The Chapter House is accessible through the North Transept. This house is octagon in shape and has no central supporting columns. The walls are decorated with beautiful glass and Gothic sculptures. Because of the shape of the house, a person’s voice can be heard without the use of a microphone.

York Minster West Transept

The West Transept is divided into a north and south aisle with a Nave in the middle. The West Window is also known as the Heart of Yorkshire because it is in the shape of a heart. In this section, there is the Pilgrimage Window featuring a procession of monkeys followed by other animals.

York Minster Visitor Information

For sightseeing in the Minster

Mon - Sat: 9.00am (9.30am November- March) - last entry 5.00pm Sunday: 12.00noon - 3.45pm

No sightseeing on Good Friday and Easter Sunday or on Sundays before 12.00noon

There are separate entry fees for the Undercroft and the Tower. Combination tickets are available.

Visitors can enjoy a 80-seat licensed restaurant and a gift shop on the premises

Sources:

The copyright of the article York Minster in York England in Castles/Forts/Cathedrals Tours is owned by Maureen K. Fleury. Permission to republish York Minster in York England must be granted by the author in writing.