CATHEDRAL EXETER

In flamboyant Gothic style, St Peter's Cathedral in Exeter is really the main attraction of the city and even one of the architectural jewels of Devon, very famous all over Europe. It was built on the foundations of a former monastery, destroyed and then rebuilt twice. The Romanesque towers of the transept, the oldest parts of the cathedral, can be seen. The present building was erected between the 12th and 13th centuries and boasts the longest Gothic vault in England and the world, a 91m long tierceron vault with remarkable sculptures. The seventh keystone depicts the murder of St Thomas Becket, an illustrious figure attached to Canterbury Cathedral. One takes the time to contemplate, eyes in the sky, amazed. Don't forget to bring binoculars! To the north of the nave, other sculptures can be seen and twelve angels, each playing a medieval instrument, can be seen above the great archway. In the choir stands an oak episcopal throne dating from the Middle Ages and the pews are covered with embroidered cushions depicting the history of Exeter. The most beautiful exterior view is that of the west façade, abundantly carved with apostles and prophets. Above it rise the two Romanesque towers, the oldest parts of the site. Guided tours (included in the ticket price) are available all day long and can help you learn more about this iconic cathedral and its many beautiful ornaments.