Monday 14 January 2013

St Mary The Virgin Church Minster


St Mary The Virgin Church Minster Mono
St Mary The Virgin Church Minster Colour

Was out and about today had a few odd jobs to do but took the camera out with me. On my way back I decided to head off into Minster to photograph the church. It was cold out today and there was a light dusting of snow left over from the previous night, which I hope has added a little something to the Image.

Couldn't decide after which I prefer, the original colour or the mono conversion. Any thoughts welcome here or on my flickr photostream.

Here is a little something about the church, hope you like it.

St. Mary's Church, known as the 'Cathedral on the marshes' is the mother church of western Thanet. Founded in 670AD it was originally both a monastic and a parish church. The first Church was probably built of mud and wood. Close by is the place where St.Augustine landed in 597 to bring Christianity back to this part of Britain.
The oldest part of the present building was built just after the Norman conquest with work continuing for about 100 years. The Chancel is Early English in style. The nave has stood in its present form since about 1150.
The Church has a set of 18 mediaeval monks, stalls (Misericords) which is one of the finest in the south of England.
At the west end of the Church Roman bricks have been used in the wall and tower, which may have come from the nearby villa. An older turret tower of unknown date is incorporated into the massive Norman tower carries a peal of 5 ancient bells, four of which are dated from the early 17th Century. Visit the Bellringers website: Minster Change Ringers
In bygone days the sea would have come up to the Churchyard wall which acted as a barrier during high tides. The turret may have served as a watch tower for shipping.
In the Church grounds is the Old Schools which was the village School from 1847-1946 and is now used by the Church for community functions.







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