Domus Dei facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Domus Dei |
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| Type | Church |
| Location | Old Portsmouth |
| OS grid reference | SZ 63269 99205 |
| Area | Hampshire |
| Built | ca 1212 |
| Architectural style(s) | Early English |
| Owner | English Heritage |
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Listed Building – Grade II
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| Official name: Royal Garrison Church | |
| Designated | 18 Mar 1999 |
| Reference no. | 1245790 |
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Domus Dei (which means "House of God" in Latin) was a special building in Old Portsmouth, England. It was built around 1212. It served as an almshouse, a place where poor people could live, and a hospice, which offered care for the sick.
Today, it is also known as the Royal Garrison Church. It is a historic site owned by English Heritage. This means it is protected because of its importance. It is also a Grade II listed building, showing its special historical value.
Contents
History of Domus Dei
How Domus Dei Started
The Domus Dei was founded around the year 1212. It was started by Peter des Roches, who was the Bishop of Winchester, and William of Wrotham. They wanted to create a place to help people in need.
A Difficult Time in 1450
In 1450, a sad event happened at the chapel of Domus Dei. Bishop Adam Moleyns was an advisor to the king. Many naval seamen were unhappy because they were not paid fully and did not get enough supplies. They broke into the church during a service. The seamen attacked Bishop Moleyns and killed him.
Because of this terrible event, the entire town of Portsmouth faced a serious punishment. The church placed the town under the Greater Excommunication. This meant that many church services and sacraments were stopped for the town. This punishment lasted for a long time, until 1508. It was finally lifted at the request of Bishop Foxe.
Changes Under King Henry VIII
In 1540, King Henry VIII took over many church buildings. Domus Dei was one of them. For about 20 years, until 1560, it was used as an armoury. An armoury is a place where weapons and military equipment are stored.
After 1560, a large house was built next to Domus Dei. This house became the home of the local military governor.
Royal Wedding and Restorations
In 1662, a very special event took place at the mansion next to Domus Dei. King Charles II married Princess Catherine of Braganza there.
Later, the church fell into disrepair, meaning it became damaged and worn out. It was repaired in 1767 and became the Garrison Church. However, it fell into disrepair again. So, a new restoration project began in 1865. This work was led by G. E. Street and took ten years to complete.
World War II Damage
On January 10, 1941, during World War II, German bombers attacked Portsmouth. Domus Dei was badly damaged. All of its beautiful stained glass windows were blown out. The main part of the church, called the nave, lost its roof due to bombs.
New windows were put in later. The East window has a traditional design. But most other windows show the connection between the British Army, the Church, and the City of Portsmouth. The chancel, which is the area around the altar, is still complete. However, the nave remains without a roof.
Recent Repairs
In 1995, the side parts of the church, called the aisles, got new roofs. But the central nave still does not have a roof. In October 2021, the building received a grant from the government. This money helped with further repairs and preservation work.
See also
In Spanish: Domus Dei para niños
