Church of St Mary the Virgin, Ston Easton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Mary the Virgin |
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| Location | Ston Easton, Somerset, England |
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Listed Building – Grade II*
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| Official name: Church of St. Mary The Virgin | |
| Designated | 21 September 1960 |
| Reference no. | 1295301 |
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The Church of St Mary the Virgin is a very old and special church. It is located in Ston Easton, a village in Somerset, England. This church has been standing since the 11th century, which means it's over 900 years old! Its tall, strong tower was added in the 15th century.
Because of its age and history, the Church of St Mary the Virgin is a Grade II* listed building. This means it's a very important historic place that needs to be protected.
Inside the Church
When you step inside the church, one of the most amazing things you'll see is the Norman chancel arch. This arch is very old, dating back to the Norman times. It has a rounded top and small columns on the sides.
Most of the furniture inside, like the pews (where people sit) and the altar rails, are from the 19th century. There are also special memorials on the walls. These remember members of the Hippisley Coxe family. They lived at Ston Easton Park and even had their own small chapel inside the church.
The Church's History
Over the centuries, parts of the church have been rebuilt or changed. For example, the chancel, which is the area around the altar, was rebuilt in 1707. The south aisle, a side section of the church, was rebuilt around 1800.
In the 19th century, the church had a big makeover. An architect named Arthur Blomfield led this work. He carefully took apart much of the building, including the old Norman arch. Each stone was marked so it could be put back in exactly the same spot. This way, the church could be made stronger while keeping its original look.
The Church Today
Today, the Church of St Mary the Virgin is still an active church. It is part of a group of churches called the benefice of Chewton Mendip. This means it works together with other local churches. It also belongs to the archdeanery of Wells, which is a larger church area.
See also
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
