Church of St Andrew, Puckington facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Andrew |
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Location | Puckington, Somerset, England |
Built | 13th Century |
Listed Building – Grade II*
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Official name: Church of St Andrew | |
Designated | 17 April 1959 |
Reference no. | 1057727 |
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The Church of St Andrew is a historic church located in Puckington, a village in Somerset, England. It was built a very long time ago, in the 13th century. This means it is over 700 years old! Today, it is recognized as a Grade II* listed building, which means it's a very important historic place that needs to be protected.
A Look at the Church's History
The Church of St Andrew was first built in the 1200s. Over the years, it has been changed and updated. In the 1400s, some parts of the church were made new.
Later, in the mid-1800s, during the Victorian era, the church had a big makeover. This was called a "Victorian restoration." During this time, a new section called the south transept was added. A transept is like a "wing" of the church that sticks out, making it look like a cross from above.
The church is part of the wider Church of England community. It belongs to the Winsmoor group of churches within the Diocese of Bath and Wells.
What the Church Looks Like
The Church of St Andrew is made of stone. It has several main parts:
- The nave: This is the main area where people sit during church services. It has two sections, or "bays."
- The chancel: This is the part of the church near the altar, usually at the eastern end. It also has two bays.
- The transept: As mentioned, this is a wing that sticks out from the main body of the church.
- A porch: This is an entrance area on the south side.
- A small vestry: This is a room on the north side, often used by the clergy to prepare for services.
The church has a tall, three-stage tower. This tower is supported by strong stone supports called buttresses. These help the walls stand firm.
The roof of the church is covered with tiles. You might spot some interesting decorations on the roof, like gargoyles. Gargoyles are carved stone figures, often shaped like monsters or animals, that also act as water spouts to drain rain from the roof. The roof also has battlements, which look like the tops of old castles, and pinnacles, which are small, pointed towers.
Inside the church, you can find some very old features:
- A 13th-century piscina: This is a stone basin with a drain, used for washing sacred vessels during church services.
- Sedilia: These are stone seats, often built into the wall of the chancel, used by the clergy.
See also
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells