Winchester Cathedral

Winchester Cathedrals site dates back to the 7th century when a Christian Church was first built. Throughout the centuries it has played an important part in the life of Winchester City and in the history of our nation. The Cathedral is open to all visitors although certain areas may be closed during special events or services.

The foundations of the current Cathedral were laid out in 1079 by Walkelin, the first Norman Bishop. To this new building (consecrated in 1093) the relics of St. Swithin were solemnly transferred, 15 July, and the `Old Minster´ was torn down. The Norman cathedral measured 535 ft (164m) in length, the longest then in existence. This is 13m longer than the present structure, the Norman towers at the West front were removed about 1350