York Minster

York Minster Nave 1, Nth Yorkshire, UK - Diliff

York Cathedral (BM 1958,0124.2)

Inspecting Fire damage, firemen, York Minster

YorkMinsterPlanDehio

York Minster Chapter House, Nth Yorkshire, UK - Diliff

York Minster Rood Screen, Nth Yorkshire, UK - Diliff

York Minister is a cathedral located in York, England, and is one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe. Known for its stunning Gothic architecture, York Minster has a history that dates back to the 7th century. The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of York, the second-highest office of the Church of England.

History

The site on which York Minster stands has been a center of Christianity since the Roman era, but the current building was constructed between the 1220s and the 1470s. It is renowned for its magnificent stained glass windows, some of the finest in Europe, including the famous Great East Window, completed in 1408, and the Five Sisters Window, which dates back to the 13th century.

Architecture

York Minster is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It features characteristic elements such as pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, which allow for larger windows and more light than its Romanesque predecessors. The cathedral's structure includes a nave with an aisled transept, a quire, and a Lady Chapel. The central tower is particularly notable for its height and for being the tallest of its kind in England.

Significant Features

1. 1. 1. The Great East Window###

The Great East Window, created by John Thornton in the early 15th century, is the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the country. It depicts the beginning and the end of the world based on the Book of Revelation.

1. 1. 1. Chapter House###

The Chapter House, built in the Decorated style between 1260 and 1286, is octagonal and used for meetings of the cathedral chapter. Its vaulted ceiling and elaborate stone carvings are particularly admired.

1. 1. 1. The Five Sisters Window###

This window is one of the largest examples of Grisaille (monochrome) stained glass in the world, dedicated to the memory of women who lost their lives in World War I.

Conservation

The conservation of York Minister is an ongoing process. The York Minster Revealed project, a £20 million renovation and conservation project, was completed in 2016, focusing on the restoration of the Great East Window and the preservation of the stonework and stained glass throughout the cathedral.

In Culture

York Minster has been a focal point for cultural and religious activities throughout its history. It plays a central role in the St. Olave's Day celebrations and is a key attraction for visitors to York, offering insights into the architectural, social, and religious history of England.

See Also

• Gothic architecture
• Stained glass
• Church of England