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Church of St Michael, Cudworth facts for kids

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Church of St Michael
St Michaels Church, Cudworth (geograph 5025878).jpg
Location Cudworth, Somerset, England
Built 12th century
Listed Building – Grade II*
Official name: Church of St Michael
Designated 4 February 1958
Reference no. 1366403
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The Church of St Michael is a very old church located in a place called Cudworth in Somerset, England. It was built way back in the 1100s! This church is so special that it's officially recognized as a Grade II* listed building, which means it's an important historical site that needs to be protected.

History of the Church

How Old is St Michael's Church?

The Church of St Michael was first built in the 12th century, which means it's over 800 years old! Some parts from that very first building are still there today. You can see the original north doorway and a small window from the 1100s.

Changes Over Time

The main parts of the church, like the nave (the main area where people sit) and the chancel (the area near the altar), were added in the 13th century. Later, in the 14th and 15th centuries, these parts were changed and updated. This shows how the church has grown and changed over hundreds of years.

Who Looks After the Church?

The church is part of a group of churches called the Winsmoor benefice. This group is looked after by the Diocese of Bath and Wells, which is a larger church organization in the area.

Architecture and Design

What is the Church Made Of?

The Church of St Michael is built from stone. It has special decorative stone called hamstone around its edges and openings. The roofs are made of slate, which is a type of rock that's good for roofing. At the western end of the church, there's a small tower called a bell turret where a bell would have been.

Inside the Church: Special Features

The church has a main area called a three-bay nave. It also has a two-bay chancel and a north aisle, which is like a walkway along the side.

Inside, you can find some really old and interesting things. There's a Jacobean pulpit, which is a raised stand where the priest gives sermons. This pulpit dates back to the 1600s.

The Ancient Font

One of the oldest items is the 13th-century font. This is a large bowl used for baptisms. It's shaped like a cylinder and has cool carvings around the top. These carvings are called "chip-carved satires." The font stands on a cylindrical base.

Stained Glass Windows

You can also see small pieces of medieval stained glass in the windows. These colorful glass pieces are very old and add to the church's historical beauty.

See also

  • List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
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