Canterbury Cathedral Historic Graffiti Tour

In 2019 a group of trained volunteers systematically recorded a large portion of the graffiti in the Eastern Crypt of Canterbury Cathedral. This area was close to the first site of St Thomas Becket’s tomb, and it is believed that some people at the time would have shown their devotion to St Thomas by carving crosses and other religious marks in the closest parts of the building to the saint’s resting place. The earliest marks were believed to have been made by local pilgrims, but as St Thomas’ shrine drew visitors from further afield, graffiti marks were made by travellers from across Europe.
On this tour, a member of the graffiti team will demonstrate how the act of carving marks into the walls and surfaces of churches and cathedrals was an acceptable practice during the Middle Ages. Much of the medieval graffiti in the Crypt is religious in nature, with crosses, Christograms and biblical images most commonly depicted in this space. The largest piece in the Cathedral, the ‘Christ in Majesty’ graffiti, will also be examined. Exploring some of the medieval marks in this space can offer a unique insight into the local community’s relationship with the Cathedral and to St Thomas, particularly in the early days of the cult of St Thomas.

Timings & Tours

Thursday 12 September:

12:30

Friday 13 September:

12:30

Location & directions

The Precincts, Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2EH

Directions:

Inside the Precincts of Canterbury Cathedral. Please assemble at the back of the Welcome Centre (directions on entry).

Contact on day:

Visits Team

Telephone number:

+441227762862

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Please book online.

Booking website:

https://buy2.myonlinebooking.co.uk/canterburycathedral/sessions.aspx?tid=18

Booking opens:

10 Jun 2024 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

11 Sep 2024 12:00 AM

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:

15

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s) 15 minute(s)

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