St Martin's Church, Fivehead facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Church of St Martin |
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| Location | Fivehead, Somerset, England |
| Built | 13th century (700+ years ago) |
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Listed Building – Grade I
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| Designated | 17 April 1959 |
| Reference no. | 431724 |
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The Anglican Church of St Martin in Fivehead, Somerset, England, is a very old and special church. It was first built over 700 years ago, starting in the 13th century. This church is so important that it has been named a Grade I listed building. This means it is recognized as a building of great historical and architectural value.
Contents
Exploring the Church's Design
The Church of St Martin is built from a special type of stone called Hamstone. This stone gives the church its unique look. The building has several main parts. These include a large central area called the nave, where people sit. There is also a chancel, which is the part of the church near the altar. The church also has a south aisle and a porch.
The Tower and Its Features
The church has a tall tower on its west side. This tower was built around the year 1505. It has three main sections, or stages. The tower is supported by strong diagonal buttresses, which are like extra supports on the outside walls. You can also see decorative corner pinnacles and interesting gargoyles on the tower. Inside the tower, there are six bells. The oldest of these bells was made around the year 1500.
Inside the Church
When you go inside the Church of St Martin, you can find some interesting historical items. One special item is a palimpsest. A palimpsest is like a piece of art or writing that has been reused. In this case, it shows a picture of Jane Seymour. She was one of the queens of England a long time ago.
The Ancient Font
The church also has a very old font. This font is where babies are baptized. It is made in the Norman style, which means it is very old. It has a round base and a bowl on top. The rim of the bowl is decorated with detailed patterns.
In the past, there was a gallery at the back of the nave. There were also special box pews, which were like enclosed seating areas. However, these were removed during a time called the Victorian restoration. This was when many old churches were updated in the Victorian era.
Outside the Church
Outside the church, right next to the village green, you will find the War Memorial. This memorial is a special place that remembers people from the village who served in wars.
Church Community
The Church of St Martin is part of a larger church community. It is connected to the benefice of Curry Rivel with Fivehead and Swell. This whole area is part of the Diocese of Bath and Wells, which is a bigger group of churches in the region.
See also
- List of Grade I listed buildings in South Somerset
- List of towers in Somerset
- List of ecclesiastical parishes in the Diocese of Bath and Wells
