Church of St Michael, Withington facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Michael |
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| Denomination | Church of England |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade I listed building |
| Designated | 26 January 1961 |
| Administration | |
| Diocese | Gloucester |
| Province | Canterbury |
The Church of St Michael is an old church located in Withington, a village in the Cotswold District of Gloucestershire, England. It belongs to the Church of England. This church was first built way back in the 1100s! It's also a special building, known as a Grade I listed building, which means it's very important historically and architecturally.
Contents
History of St Michael's Church
The area where St Michael's Church stands has a long history. A very old monastery from the Saxon times (around 674 AD) used to be here. This shows that people have been worshipping in Withington for a very long time.
Early Records and Ownership
In the year 1086, a priest living in Withington was mentioned in the Domesday Book. This was a huge survey ordered by William the Conqueror to record everything in England. The land and the right to choose the priest for the church belonged to the Bishop of Worcester. The Bishop even had a summer home in Withington!
Building and Changes Over Time
The church you see today was mostly rebuilt in the 12th century (the 1100s). You can still see parts of the original 12th-century design. For example, there's a blocked-up doorway with carvings from that time. Another old doorway is still used to enter the church.
A lot of changes were made in the 15th century (the 1400s). The church was updated in a style called Perpendicular Gothic architecture. During this time, a clerestory was added. This is a row of windows high up on the church walls, which lets in more light. Later, in 1872, an architect named David Brandon made some smaller additions.
A Modern, Eco-Friendly Church
In 2010, something very modern happened at St Michael's. Solar panels were put on the church roof! This was part of a plan to make the church produce no carbon emissions. The church now proudly says it's the first "zero-carbon" church in England. This means it tries to have no negative impact on the environment.
The church is part of the Coln River benefice, which is a group of churches working together. This group is part of the wider Diocese of Gloucester.
Architecture and Features
The Church of St Michael is built from limestone, a common stone in the area. Its roofs are made of stone slates. The church has a main area called the nave, a south porch (an entrance area), a chancel (the part where the altar is), and a vestry (a room for the clergy).
The Church Tower and Bells
The church has a tall, central tower with three levels. It has strong supports called buttresses. Inside the tower, there are six bells that ring out over the village. There's also a clock with chimes. The wooden frame that holds the bells is very old, from the 15th century. It was originally built to hold four bells.
Inside the Church
When you go inside, you'll find a font that is also from the 15th century. This is where baptisms, a special church ceremony, take place.
