This beautiful church was the discovery of a ramble one Sunday afternoon. I was overjoyed when Peter, the church warden, was there to permit me to go inside. What was a very unassuming doorway, then led to the most ornately carved Norman stonework I have seen on such a small parish church. This archway, known as a tympanum, is a spectacular ‘hidden’ gem within.
As the daughter of a builder, I am fascinated with buildings of all kinds, their construction, sometimes their former use, and the many skills employed to create. I am particularly drawn to ancient architecture and stone masonry. It fascinates me even more, but I also love the beauty and care taken to produce the many stunning buildings I have been privileged to visit.
There is no finer thing for me, than the rich tapestry of history our Country has to offer – it is there to be discovered. There is much about our history and heritage some would seek to change, throughout the ages this has always been the case. The most memorable of course for us, is the Reformation, which to this day, leaves its scars across our Country. My ‘architecture history hunts’ have led me to many places where – thankfully – reminders remain from before the turmoil.
The interior of St Edmonds has a little of the original, centuries old, beautiful, ornate woodwork remaining. Sadly, statues and other treasures, seen in its day by some, as unnecessary squandering of money and idolatry, has been destroyed by Henry VIII ‘cleansing’ and religious persecution. This includes the pews, which were replaced by more simple, plain benches. There are just of the originals on which the Tudor roses are clearly visible. Perhaps saved because of that fact alone.
Churches like St Edmunds, are wonderful survivors of many a conflict. It is a true privilage to be allowed to photograph anything that remains, to share with others, that may not even know it exists.
