St Maethlu's Church, Llanfaethlu facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Maethlu's Church |
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| Country | Wales, United Kingdom |
| Denomination | Church in Wales |
| Architecture | |
| Heritage designation | Grade II* |
| Designated | 4 May 1971 |
| Architectural type | Church |
| Style | Medieval |
St Maethlu's Church is a very old church found in the village of Llanfaethlu, which is on Anglesey island in Wales. This church was built a long time ago, in the 1400s. It was later updated in the early 1900s. It is considered a special building and was given a "Grade II*" listed status on May 4, 1971. This means it's an important historical building.
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Who is Saint Maethlu?
The church is named after a Christian saint called Saint Maethlu. He was known as Maethlu the Confessor. People believe he started a religious community about three-quarters of a mile south of where the church stands today.
Exploring the Church Building
St Maethlu's Church has a long history, going back to the 1400s. That's when the main part of the church, called the nave, was built. The entrance porch, which still has its original stone benches, likely dates from the same time.
Materials and Features
The church walls are made from rough stones, and the roof is covered with slate tiles. At the west end of the church, there's a small tower for the bell. The bell itself is quite old, dating back to 1760.
The nave has three sections and shows the "Perpendicular style" of architecture. This was popular in the 1400s. You can still see two original windows from the 1400s on the south side. These windows have a square shape with two smaller, decorative arched openings inside.
Inside the Church
Inside, on the north wall, you'll find some beautiful bronze and marble memorials. These date from the 1700s and 1800s. A part of the church called the chancel was added in 1874. The whole building was then carefully restored in the early 1900s to keep it in good condition.
What is a Listed Building?
St Maethlu's Church was officially named a Grade II* building on May 4, 1971. This special status means it's a very important historical site. It's a great example of a small church from the 1400s that still has many of its original parts. It also has a wonderful collection of old memorials, some from the 1500s and 1600s.
The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales keeps records about this church. These records include digital photos of the inside and outside, drawings, and old slides.
