St Cadoc's Church, Caerleon facts for kids

St Cadoc's Church is part of the Church in Wales and is located in Caerleon.

The lychgate, a special covered gate at the entrance to the churchyard.

St Cadoc's Church is a historic church in the town of Caerleon, Newport, in Wales. It is part of the Church in Wales and is named after St Cadoc, a famous Welsh saint. Because of its long and interesting history, the building is officially protected as a Grade II* listed building. This means it is a very important site that must be preserved for the future.

The History of St Cadoc's

Roman and Norman Roots

The church stands on a very special spot. Long ago, Caerleon was the site of a huge Roman fortress called Isca Augusta. St Cadoc's was built right over the principia, which was the headquarters of the Roman legion. This was where the Romans kept their important flags and statues of their emperors.

The oldest parts of the church we can see today were built in the 12th century. This was after the Normans took over the ancient Welsh kingdom of Glywysing. A local Welsh leader named Hywel ap Iowerth is believed to have built the first church here. He also founded the nearby Llantarnam Abbey for Cistercian monks.

A New Look in the 15th Century

In the 15th century, the church was rebuilt in a style called Perpendicular Gothic. This was a popular and fashionable style of architecture at the time, known for its tall, straight lines.

The church's tower, located at the southwest corner, is a mix of old and new. The bottom part of the tower is from the original Norman church. You can even see small, narrow lancet windows from the 12th or 13th century.

Special Features of the Church

One of the most beautiful parts of St Cadoc's Church is its collection of stained-glass windows. These colorful windows tell stories from the life of Jesus Christ. They also honor the saints connected to Caerleon, showing the deep faith of the people who have worshipped here for centuries.

The church has been recognized as a Grade II* listed building since 1951. This special status was given because it is a key landmark in Caerleon and has a magnificent medieval tower.

See also

• Cambuslang
• Llancarfan, site of Cadoc's 6th century abbey
• St Cadoc's Hospital, Caerleon
• St Cadocs/Penygarn, electoral ward, in Torfaen, also with a St Cadoc's church
• St Cadoc's Church, Raglan
• St Cadoc's Church, Llangattock Lingoed