Church of St Mary the Virgin, Tetbury 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	21 March 1985
Administration
Diocese	Gloucester
Province	Canterbury

The Church of St Mary the Virgin is a historic church in Tetbury, England. It is located in the Cotswold District of Gloucestershire. This church is the main parish church for the area. It was built in 1781 and is considered a very important building. In fact, it is a Grade I listed building, which means it has special historical value.

History of St Mary's Church

People have worshipped on this spot since the 7th century. There might have even been a Saxon monastery here long ago. The church you see today was designed by an architect named Francis Hiorne. It opened in 1781. This new church replaced an older medieval building. That older church was taken down in 1777. Building the new church cost about £5,059 at that time.

The tower and spire from the old 14th-century church were kept. They were rebuilt in 1891 using the same original stones.

Exploring the Church's Design

Gothic Revival Style

The Church of St Mary the Virgin is made of stone. It is built in the Gothic Revival style. This means it looks like older medieval churches. It has a special roof called a hipped roof. This roof is covered with slate and Cotswold stone. The top edge of the church has a decorative wall called an embattled parapet.

Inside the Church

The church has a large main area called a Hall church. It has seven sections, or "bays." Inside, you will find the nave, which is the main part where people sit. There is also a chancel, which is near the altar. On the sides, there are aisles.

The Tall Tower and Bells

The church's tower is very tall, reaching about 57 meters (187 feet) high. It holds a set of eight bells. Most of these bells were made in 1722. They were all created by a famous bell-making company called Rudhall of Gloucester.

Unique Features Inside

You will notice some special box pews in the church. These are like small, enclosed seating areas. You reach them from a passageway that goes around the church, not from the main middle aisle. The church also has beautiful Stained glass windows. Some of these were made by famous artists like Clayton and Bell and William Wailes. Two very large chandeliers hang above the nave. They have been there since 1781.

Reminders of the Past

Inside the church, there is a special "roll of honour." This list remembers people from Tetbury who served in World War I. You can also see some old statues, called effigies. These were moved here from the earlier church building. They are now in the north aisle passage.