Church of St Mary the Virgin, Syde facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Mary the Virgin |
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| Denomination | Church of England |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade I listed building |
| Designated | 26 November 1958 |
| Administration | |
| Benefice | Ermin West |
| Diocese | Gloucester |
| Province | Canterbury |
The Anglican Church of St Mary the Virgin is a very old church located in Syde, a small village in the Cotswold District of Gloucestershire, England. It was built a long time ago, in the early 12th century. This church is considered a very important historical building. It is known as a Grade I listed building. This means it has special protection because of its history and architecture.
History of the Church
This church was built by the Normans in the early 1100s. It stands on the same spot where an even older Saxon church once stood. Some parts of the original Saxon building were reused. For example, a stone beam above the south doorway is from that earlier time.
In the 14th century, a special tower was added. This tower has a unique "saddleback" roof, which looks like a saddle. The main part of the church, called the chancel, was repaired and improved in 1850. The church is part of the Ermin West group of churches. This group belongs to the Diocese of Gloucester.
Church Architecture and Features
The church is made from limestone and has roofs covered with stone slates. It has several main parts. These include the nave (the main area where people sit), the chancel (the area near the altar), a porch, and a vestry (a room for the clergy). It also has the west tower.
The nave has a special type of roof called a "crown post" roof. The three-story saddleback tower holds three bells. These bells were made by a famous company called Rudhall of Gloucester. Two of the bells are very old, dating back to the 14th century. The third bell was made in 1771.
Inside, you can see a font from the 15th century. This is a large basin used for baptisms. It sits on a base with five flat, angled sides. The church also still has its original box pews from the 18th century. These are like small, enclosed seating areas. You can also find some beautiful stained glass from the 15th century. One window shows a picture of James the Great.
