Church of St Michael and All Angels, Castlemartin, Pembrokeshire facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Michael's Church, Castlemartin |
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| Church of St Michael and All Angels, Castlemartin | |
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 St Michael's Church, Castlemartin
Location in Pembrokeshire
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| 51°38′59″N 5°01′18″W / 51.6498°N 5.0216°W | |
| Location | Castlemartin, Pembrokeshire |
| Country | Wales |
| Denomination | Church in Wales |
| History | |
| Status | Redundant |
| Founded | 13th century |
| Dedication | Saint Michael and All Angels |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade I |
| Designated | 14 May 1970 |
| Architectural type | Church |
| Specifications | |
| Materials | Stone, slate roof |
The Church of St Michael and All Angels is an old church located in Castlemartin, Pembrokeshire, Wales. It was built a very long time ago, in the 1200s! Today, it's a special kind of church called a 'redundant church,' which means it's not used for regular services anymore. It's also a 'Grade I listed building,' which is the highest protection for important historic buildings. A group called the Friends of Friendless Churches now takes care of it, making sure it stays safe for future generations.
Contents
A Look Back: The Church's Story
The Church of St Michael and All Angels stands just outside the small village of Castlemartin. It is very close to two ancient 'holy wells.' These wells might mean that this spot was important for religious reasons even before the church was built, way back in pre-historic times.
Ancient Discoveries
In 1922, something amazing was found in the church wall. It was a cross that was made between the 600s and 800s! Sadly, this ancient cross has since been lost.
How the Church Was Built
Most of the church building you see today was built in the 1200s. The tall tower in the middle was added later, sometime in the 1300s or 1400s. Over the years, the church has been repaired and updated. It was first restored in the early 1800s. Then, it had another big restoration in 1858.
Special Windows and Memorials
The church has some beautiful Victorian stained glass windows. These windows were made by famous companies like Hardman & Co. and Heaton, Butler and Bayne. One window, showing the Crucifixion, was designed by Augustus Pugin. Many people say it's the best example of his work in any church in Wales. Inside the church, there is also a special memorial from the First World War. It remembers three brave men from Castlemartin who lost their lives in that conflict.
Protecting History
In the early 2000s, the church was officially declared 'redundant.' This means it was no longer needed for regular church services. Now, the Friends of Friendless Churches look after it. They work to save old churches that are no longer used, so their history and beauty can be preserved.
Protecting Historic Buildings
St Michael's Church is a Grade I listed building. This is the highest level of protection for historic buildings in the United Kingdom. It means the church is very important and must be kept safe.
Other Protected Buildings Nearby
The old house where the vicar used to live, right next to the church, is also a protected building. It's a Grade II* listed building, but it's not used anymore. Even a special stone block in the churchyard, called a mounting block, has its own protection as a Grade II listed building. Mounting blocks were used to help people get onto their horses easily.
