Church of St Peter and St Paul, Muchelney facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Church of St Peter and St Paul
Location	Muchelney, Somerset, England
Built	15th century
Listed Building – Grade I
Official name: Church of SS Peter and Paul
Designated	17 April 1959
Reference no.	263267
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The Church of St Peter and St Paul is a very old church in Muchelney, Somerset, England. It has roots going back to Saxon times, which means it's over 1,000 years old! However, most of the building you see today was built in the 1400s. It's so important that it's officially listed as a Grade I building. This means it's a very special historic place.

The church is right next to the old Muchelney Abbey ruins. It's also quite close to the River Parrett. Inside, the church has a beautiful ceiling with paintings of angels. These paintings are from the Jacobean era, which was in the early 1600s.

This church also has a very rare musical instrument. It's a special type of barrel organ built by Gray and Davison. It was put in the church between 1835 and 1840. What makes it amazing is that it's the only one known to still be in the same church where it was first installed, and it still works!

History of the Church

The Church of St Peter and St Paul has a long and interesting past. While parts of it are very old, the main building was built in the 15th century. This was a time when many beautiful churches were being constructed in England. The church has stood for centuries, watching over the village of Muchelney.

Being a Grade I listed building means it's protected. This helps make sure that this important piece of history is kept safe for future generations. It's a great example of old English church architecture.

Inside the Church

When you step inside the church, you'll notice its unique design. It has a main area called a nave with aisles on either side. This is where the churchgoers sit. There is also a chancel, which is the part of the church near the altar. On each side of the chancel, there are smaller chapels.

One of the most eye-catching features is the ceiling. It's decorated with lovely paintings of angels. These artworks were created during the Jacobean period, which was a time of King James I's rule in England. They add a special touch to the church's interior.

The church's barrel organ is another highlight. Imagine a musical instrument that plays tunes by itself! This barrel organ is a true survivor. It's rare to find one still working in its original home. It shows us how music was made in churches a long time ago.

The Somerset Tower

The church has a tall, impressive tower. It's known as a "Somerset tower" because this style is common in the Somerset area. This tower was built around the year 1468. It has three main sections, or "stages," that rise up towards the sky.

The tower is very strong. It's supported by large corner buttresses. These are strong supports built into the walls. They help the tower stand tall and firm. You can also see a round stair turret on the south-east side. This small tower holds a staircase that leads to an outer door.

Church Community

The Church of St Peter and St Paul is still an active church today. It is part of the Langport Area Team Ministry. This group of churches works together in the Ilchester area. They are all part of the Diocese of Bath and Wells, which is a larger church region. The church continues to serve the local community.

See also

• Grade I listed buildings in South Somerset
• List of Somerset towers
• List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells