Church of St Mary Major, Ilchester facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Church of St Mary Major
Location	Ilchester, Somerset, England
Built	13th century
Listed Building – Grade II*
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 an old and important church in Ilchester, Somerset, England. It was built a very long time ago, in the 13th century. This church is a special building known as a Grade II* listed building. This means it is protected because of its history and unique design.

History of St Mary Major Church

For many years, the church was looked after by Muchelney Abbey. This continued until the year 1239. After that, the Bishop of Bath and Wells became responsible for the church.

The church was first built in the 1200s. Later, in the 15th century, its size was made smaller. During a big repair project in the 1800s, old stone pillars were found. One of these pillars can still be seen in the churchyard today. A new part of the church, called the south aisle, was added between 1879 and 1880.

The church is part of a group of local churches. This group includes Ilchester with Northover, Limington, Yeovilton, and Podimore. They all belong to the Diocese of Bath and Wells.

Architecture and Design of the Church

The Church of St Mary Major is made of stone. It has special local stone called hamstone for its decorations. The roof is made of clay tiles.

The church has a main area called the nave, where people sit. It also has a smaller area near the altar called the chancel. The church tower has three levels. The bottom part has strong corner supports called buttresses. The top parts of the tower are shaped like an octagon, which means they have eight sides.

The tower has a set of five bells. Two of these bells were made by the famous Bilbie family. They were well-known bell makers.

Most of the church's decorations and fittings are from the 1800s. However, there are some older pieces. You can see an eight-sided pulpit from the late 1500s. There are also pieces of wood paneling, called dado panel, from the 1600s. You can also find small pieces of old stained glass windows. Behind the pulpit, there are even parts 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