Bell's Cathedrals: The Abbey Church of Tewkesbury / with some Account of the Priory Church of Deerhurst Gloucestershire

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22260

Title

Bell's Cathedrals: The Abbey Church of Tewkesbury / with some Account of the Priory Church of Deerhurst Gloucestershire

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This book is a historical account of Tewkesbury Abbey in Gloucestershire, England. The author, H.J.L.J. Massé, provides detailed descriptions of the abbey's architecture, history, and notable features. The text includes information on the abbey's foundation, its role in the Norman Conquest, and its significance as a place of worship.

Summary up to 500 words

Tewkesbury Abbey is a Benedictine monastery founded in 715 by two Saxon nobles, Oddo and Doddo. The abbey was rebuilt in the 12th century under the guidance of Abbot Giraldus and Robert Fitz-Hamon. The text describes the abbey's architecture, including its nave, transepts, choir, and tower. It also provides information on the abbey's history, including its role in the Norman Conquest and its significance as a place of worship. The abbey has undergone several transformations over the centuries, with various additions and modifications made to its structure. The main part of the church, as it now stands, is usually assigned to about 1123, and substantially is as strong now as it was then. In the following year, 1124, Abbot Robert died, and soon afterwards Theulf, the old Bishop of Worcester, also passed away. The abbey has a rich history, with many notable figures associated with it. One such figure is George, Duke of Clarence, Earl of Warwick and Salisbury, who was buried in the Clarence Vault along with his wife Isabelle. The vault was made artificialiter behind the great altar, in front of the door of the chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The abbey also has a number of chapels and chantries, including the Lady Chapel, St. Edmund's Chapel, and the Trinity Chapel. These chapels are adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. The abbey's architecture is a testament to its rich history and significance as a place of worship. The text also provides information on the monastic buildings, including the cloister, refectory, and dormitory. The cloister was used for walking and contemplation, while the refectory was used for meals. The dormitory was where the monks slept. In addition to its architecture and history, the abbey is also notable for its art and artifacts. The abbey has a number of beautiful stained glass windows, including the West Window, which is one of the largest in England. The abbey also has a number of intricate stone carvings, including those found in the Lady Chapel. The text concludes by providing information on the abbey's dimensions and layout. The total length of the exterior is 331 feet, while the total length of the interior is 311 feet. The breadth of the west end is 80 feet, and the nave has a length of 170 feet and a breadth of 71 feet. Overall, Tewkesbury Abbey is a significant historical site that offers a glimpse into the lives of the Benedictine monks who once lived there. Its architecture, history, art, and artifacts make it a fascinating place to visit and learn about.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion
• History