Church of St Mary, Hardington Mandeville facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Mary |
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| Location | Hardington Mandeville, Somerset, England |
| Built | 1123 |
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Listed Building – Grade II*
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| Official name: Church of St Mary | |
| Designated | 19 April 1961 |
| Reference no. | 1345795 |
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The Church of St Mary is an old church located in Hardington Mandeville, a village in Somerset, England. It was built a very long time ago, in the year 1123! This church is considered a special historic building, known as a Grade II* listed building, which means it's very important and protected.
Contents
A Look Back: Church History
When Was the Church Built?
The Church of St Mary was first built in 1123. It was constructed on the same spot where an even older church once stood.
Restoring the Church
Over the centuries, the church has been repaired and updated. A big restoration project happened in the 1400s. Later, in 1864, more work was done. This included rebuilding the chancel, which is the part of the church near the altar.
The Church Clock
The church has a clock mechanism that is very old. It was put in place before the year 1707.
Part of the Community
The church is part of a larger group of churches. This group is called the Coker Ridge benefice. It belongs to the Diocese of Bath and Wells.
Church Design and Features
What is the Church Made Of?
The Church of St Mary is built from a local type of stone. This stone is called hamstone. It has a roof made of tiles.
The Church Tower
The church has a tall tower with three sections. This tower is actually from the original building built in 1123. Inside the tower, there are six bells. Three of these bells were made by the Purdue family. They were famous bell makers from Closworth. The oldest bell dates back to 1591. Two more bells were added to the tower in 1974.
The Baptismal Font
Inside the church, you can find a round font. This is where people are baptized. It is believed to be from the original church built in 1123. The font is also made of hamstone. It has special carvings around its edge. It stands on a round base.
A Mysterious Carving
In the sanctuary area of the church, there is a unique carving. It shows a triangular-shaped creature with a beak. No one is quite sure where it came from. It is not made from local stone. Some experts think it might be in the Ringerike style. This was a type of art from the Vikings in Scandinavia.
