Church of St Mary, Icomb facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Mary |
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| Denomination | Church of England |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade I listed building |
| Designated | 25 August 1960 |
| Administration | |
| Benefice | Evenlode Vale |
| Diocese | Gloucester |
| Province | Canterbury |
The Church of St Mary is an old church in a village called Icomb, located in the Cotswold District of Gloucestershire, England. It belongs to the Church of England. This beautiful building was mostly built in the 15th century, which means it's over 500 years old! It's so important that it's officially recognized as a Grade I listed building, meaning it's a very special historic place.
A Look Back in Time
The very first church on this spot was built a long, long time ago. Its main part, called the nave (where people sit), was built in the 12th century. Later, in the 13th century, the chancel (the area near the altar) was added.
You can still see signs of its ancient past! There used to be a Norman style doorway in the north wall of the nave, but it's now blocked up. The tall tower you see today was added much later, around the year 1600.
The Church of St Mary is part of a group of churches called the Evenlode Vale benefice, which is overseen by the Diocese of Gloucester.
What the Church Looks Like
The Church of St Mary is built from a type of rock called limestone. It has a nave, a chancel, and a south transept (a part that sticks out, making the church look like a cross).
The Tower and Bells
The church has a tall, three-stage tower with a gabled roof (a roof shaped like a triangle). Inside the tower, you'll find a set of tubular bells. These are long metal tubes that make musical sounds when struck, instead of traditional cup-shaped bells.
Inside the Church
As you step inside, you'll see a special plaque. It's there to remember the people from the village who bravely served and died in World War I.
You can also spot a very old piscina from the 13th century. A piscina is a small basin with a drain, usually found near the altar, used for washing the sacred vessels during church services. This one has a trefoil-headed arch, which means its top is shaped like a three-leaf clover.
The church also features beautiful stained glass windows. The large window at the east end of the church was made by a famous company called James Powell and Sons.
