Church of St Aldhelm and St Eadburgha, Broadway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Aldhelm and St Eadburgha |
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| Location | Broadway, Somerset, England |
| Built | 13th century |
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Listed Building – Grade I
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| Designated | 4 February 1958 |
| Reference no. | 264065 |
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The Church of St Aldhelm and St Eadburgha is a very old church in Broadway, Somerset, England. It was built in the 13th century, which means it's over 700 years old! This church is so important that English Heritage has given it a special status. It is a Grade I listed building, meaning it's a building of exceptional historical interest.
The church is named after two saints, which is quite unusual. One saint is St Aldhelm, who lived a long time ago, from about 639 to 709 AD. He was an important religious leader, serving as an Abbot and a Bishop. He was also a talented writer and scholar.
The other saint is St Eadburgha. She was the granddaughter of the famous King Alfred the Great. Many churches named after her are found near Pershore Abbey in Worcestershire. This is because some of her remains were moved there after she died. People greatly respected her, and a special devotion to her grew over time.
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Why is the Church in an Unusual Spot?
The Church of St Aldhelm and St Eadburgha is not in the middle of Broadway village. It stands a bit away from the main part of the village. People believe this unusual location is because of a terrible event that happened long ago: an outbreak of the plague. The villagers might have moved the church or built it away from homes to avoid the spread of the illness.
Historical Features of the Church
This ancient church has several interesting features that show its long history.
The Churchyard Cross
Outside the church, in the churchyard, there is an old stone cross. This cross is also from the 13th century, just like the church itself. It has stood there for hundreds of years, watching over the church and its visitors.
The Original Wooden Bier
Inside the church, you can still see a very old wooden bier. A bier is a special frame used to carry a coffin during funerals. This particular bier is the original one used at funerals in Broadway over a century ago. It's a fascinating piece of history that shows how people honored their dead in the past.
Interesting Facts About the Church
Its Isolated Location
The church stands a little way from the main village of Broadway. People believe this is because of an outbreak of the plague a long time ago. Moving the church away from the village might have been a way to keep people safe.
Ancient Features
The church has some very old parts. The cross in the churchyard, where people are buried, is also from the 13th century, just like the church itself.
Inside the church, you can still see the original wooden bier. A bier is a special frame used to carry coffins during funerals. This one has been used for over a hundred years!
See also
- List of Grade I listed buildings in South Somerset
- List of towers in Somerset
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
