Canterbury Cathedral
AbrahamicChristianbuildingNorthern Europe597 CE - present
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Location
Modern Name
Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Christ at Canterbury
Country
United Kingdom
Region
Northern Europe
Coordinates
51.2798, 1.0830
Era
597 CE - present
Site Type
Building
About
The mother church of the Anglican Communion and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, built on the site of Augustine of Canterbury's mission.
Significance
England's most important medieval pilgrimage destination after the martyrdom of Thomas Becket in 1170; spiritual heart of world Anglicanism.
History & Historical Arc
Founded by Augustine of Canterbury in 597 CE; the Norman cathedral was begun in 1070; Becket was murdered here in 1170 a…
Archaeological Notes
Saxon foundations beneath the nave; Roman mosaic fragments discovered; Becket's shrine (destroyed by Henry VIII in 1538)…
Key Features & Structures
- Trinity Chapel (Becket shrine site)
- medieval stained glass
Visitor Information
Open daily; entry fee for non-worshippers; audio guides available; evensong free to attend.
Related Figures
Augustine of CanterburyThomas BecketArchbishop AnselmGeoffrey Chaucer