Church of St Mary Major, Ilchester facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Mary Major |
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| Location | Ilchester, Somerset, England |
| Built | 13th century |
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Listed Building – Grade II*
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| Official name: Church of St Mary Major | |
| Designated | 19 April 1961 |
| Reference no. | 1345741 |
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The Church of St Mary Major is a historic church located in Ilchester, Somerset, England. It was built a very long time ago, in the 13th century. This church is special because it's a Grade II* listed building, which means it's an important historical site protected by the government.
Contents
History of the Church
Early Beginnings
For many years, Ilchester was connected to Muchelney Abbey, a type of monastery. This lasted until the year 1239. After that, the church came under the care of the Bishop of Bath and Wells.
Building and Changes Over Time
The Church of St Mary Major was first built in the 1200s. Over time, it changed. In the 15th century, which was the 1400s, the church was made smaller.
During a big repair project in the 1800s, some old pillars were found. One of these pillars can still be seen in the churchyard today. Between 1879 and 1880, more work was done to the church. This included adding a south aisle, which is a side section of the church.
The Church Today
Today, the church is part of a group of churches in the area. This group includes Ilchester with Northover, Limington, Yeovilton, and Podimore. They all belong to the Diocese of Bath and Wells, which is a part of the Church of England.
Church Design and Features
Building Materials and Shape
The Church of St Mary Major is made of stone. It has special hamstone details and a roof covered with clay tiles. The main part of the church, called the nave, has three sections. The chancel, which is the area near the altar, has two sections.
The Tower and Bells
The church has a tall tower with three levels. The bottom part of the tower has strong corner supports called buttresses. The upper parts of the tower are shaped like an octagon. Inside the tower, there are five bells. Two of these bells were made by the famous Bilbie family, who were known for making bells.
Inside the Church
Most of the decorations and furniture inside the church were added in the 1800s. However, there are some older pieces.
- There's an eight-sided pulpit from the late 1500s.
- You can also see small pieces of wood paneling, called dado, from the 1600s.
- There are also fragments of old stained glass windows from the Middle Ages.
- Behind the pulpit, you can find small pieces of an old wall painting.
- The font, which is used for baptisms, was found in two pieces in the churchyard. It was put back together and is now used in the church.
See also
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
