st lawrence church
St. Lawrence provides a haven of peace and tranquility in middle of the busy city centre of Winchester. Tucked away down a little side alley it is easy to miss but of historical importance.
The only surviving parish church of Norman foundation within Winchester’s city walls, St Lawrence is referred to as the Mother Church of Winchester. When a new Bishop of Winchester is about to be enthroned in the Cathedral, the first stop is at St Lawrence Church, to be presented to the Mayor, clergy and citizens.
There was a church on the site before the Norman conquest, and it was incorporated into William the Conqueror’s palace as the royal chapel. Both were destroyed by fire in 1141, during the civil war of Stephen and Matilda, and St Lawrence Church was rebuilt in about 1150. The church has an unusual square design, and also a fine 17th-century ‘king-post’ roof.
The church was badly damaged by fire in 1978 and after restoration it was re-opened in 1980, with seating for about 120 people.
st lawrence church
St. Lawrence provides a haven of peace and tranquility in middle of the busy city centre of Winchester. Tucked away down a little side alley it is easy to miss but of historical importance.
The only surviving parish church of Norman foundation within Winchester’s city walls, St Lawrence is referred to as the Mother Church of Winchester. When a new Bishop of Winchester is about to be enthroned in the Cathedral, the first stop is at St Lawrence Church, to be presented to the Mayor, clergy and citizens.
There was a church on the site before the Norman conquest, and it was incorporated into William the Conqueror’s palace as the royal chapel. Both were destroyed by fire in 1141, during the civil war of Stephen and Matilda, and St Lawrence Church was rebuilt in about 1150. The church has an unusual square design, and also a fine 17th-century ‘king-post’ roof.
The church was badly damaged by fire in 1978 and after restoration it was re-opened in 1980, with seating for about 120 people.