The Nave of the Cathedral [looking East towards the Choir]

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© P.E.Blanche 1998 The Nave from The Choir with the West Window in the background.

This area of the Cathedral has been rebuilt more than once, the most recent complete reconstruction having been started in 1377 by Archbishop Simon of Sudbury. As a result of his enthusiasm, including a personal donation of 3,000 marks, the previously Romanesque structure, which had got to the point of being unsafe, was replaced by the Perpendicular architecture we see today with its towering vaulted ceilings.

Simon of Sudbury did not live to see his work finished as he was murdered in 1381 shortly after construction started because he was seen as responsible for the then Poll Tax. He was taken from the Tower of London by rebels where he had taken refuge and beheaded. By the time the work was finished in the early 1400's, the original architect, Henry Yevele, who was also involved in the construction of Westminster Abbey, was also dead. The final years of work was overseen by the energetic Prior Dom Thomas Chillenden. It was his leadership and financial capability that allowed for completion, at which time the costs of the project were running at a staggering £500 a year.

On the left-hand side of this lower picture you can just see the pulpit which is located in the Nave.

© P.E.Blanche 1977

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