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8. Leicester (2) Castle House and St Mary de Castro Church
The Church of St Mary de Castro (St Mary of the Castle), founded in the very early 12th century (1107), and the medieval Timbered Castle Gate House (dating from the 15th century, 1445). It was rebuilt in the 1180's and the magnificent spire built in 1400 and is well worth a visit from any visitor-tourist passing through Leicester City.
Just two of the many fine medieval buildings in Leicestershire.
A richly carved Norman door arch in the west wall of St Mary de Castro, Leicester.
Another ornately carved Norman door arch and iron-work on the wooden door.
A whole series of beautifully crafted early Norman carvings, with particularly rich stonework on the north side of the chancel.
More details of the rich carving of the stonework on the north wall of St Mary de Castro Church.
The Church of St Mary de Castro viewed from the south-east. In the church around 1366, Geoffrey Chaucer married Philippa de Roet, a lady-in-waiting to Edward III's Queen (Philippa of Hainault), who was a sister of Katherine Swynford who later, around 1396, became the third wife of Chaucer's friend and patron, John of Gaunt. * Page updated July 21st 2008 * EMAIL Phil Brown * pictures-images © Phil Brown * |