Church of St Peter, Willersey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Peter |
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| Denomination | Church of England |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade I listed building |
| Designated | 25 August 1960 |
| Administration | |
| Diocese | Gloucester |
| Province | Canterbury |
The Church of St Peter is a beautiful old church in Willersey, a village in Gloucestershire, England. It belongs to the Church of England. This church was built a very long time ago, in the 1100s! It is so special that it's a Grade I listed building, meaning it's protected because of its history and beauty. Look closely and you'll see its tall bell tower from the 1400s, decorated with cool pinnacles (pointy tops) and gargoyles (stone carvings, often shaped like monsters, that also help drain water).
Contents
A Look Back in Time: The Church's History
How the Church Grew Over Centuries
The main part of the church, called the nave (where the people sit), was first built in the 12th century (the 1100s). Later, in the 13th century (the 1200s), the aisle (a side part of the church) was rebuilt. A porch was also added at this time. The tall bell tower, which you can see today, was built much later, in the 15th century (the 1400s).
Important Builders: The Abbots of Evesham
In the 14th and 15th centuries, the church became even bigger. This was thanks to the Abbots of Evesham. An abbot was the head of a monastery. These abbots had their summer home in Willersey, so they helped expand the church.
The Church Bells
The church tower holds six bells. These bells were made in 1712. They were created by a company called Rudhall of Gloucester, using metal from three older bells. Imagine the sounds they have made over the centuries!
Recent Updates
Even old churches need a little care! In 2017, the Church of St Peter had a big update. This work cost about £100,000 to make sure the church stays strong and beautiful for many more years.
Part of a Bigger Family
The Church of St Peter in Willersey is part of a larger group of churches. It is linked with the church in Saintbury. Together, they are part of the Vale and Cotswold Edge benefice, which is like a local church district. This group is part of the wider Diocese of Gloucester.
What the Church Looks Like: Architecture
Building Materials and Parts
The Church of St Peter is made from limestone, a common stone in the Cotswolds. The building has several main parts:
- The nave: This is the main area where people gather for services.
- The chancel: This is the part of the church near the altar, often used by the choir and clergy.
- The transept: This is a part that sticks out on either side, making the church look like a cross from above.
- A two-stage tower: This is the tall bell tower, built in two main sections.
Inside the Church: Special Features
When you go inside, you'll see some very old and interesting features:
- The font: This is a special basin used for baptisms. The one in St Peter's is from the Norman period, meaning it's from the 11th or 12th century!
- A piscina: This is a small stone basin with a drain, usually found near the altar. It was used for washing the sacred vessels after church services. The piscina in this church is from the 14th century.
