The city of Ripon (the third smallest city in England) lies about 30 miles north-east of Saltaire, and sits on the rivers Skell and Laver, tributaries of the river Ure. Its significance historically is as a religious centre, founded by St Wilfrid in the year 658 and it remains notable chiefly for its cathedral. Built on a hill in the city, the cathedral's towers can be seen for miles around, though I've always found that the nearer you get to it the harder it is to see, certainly in its entirety! There are tantalising glimpses, like the one above. But without a specialist lens it's hard to capture a close view of it.
Perhaps because it started life as a minster church rather than a cathedral (gaining cathedral status in 1836) it is smaller and rather plainer than many of our great cathedrals. Its crypt dates to the 7th century and most of what you see today was built between the 13th and 16th centuries.
The west front is the most imposing view, in Early English Gothic style, with lots of stained glass. This was my best attempt at a photo without too much convergence of verticals:
It reminds me of Rheim. Certainly not of Beauvais. This magnificent Ripon Cathedral will stand forever!
ReplyDeleteIt would be nice to be able to see it in its entirety, I agree, though I really like the first shot which gives a real impression of a large church placed in a tiny city.
ReplyDeleteI love that first picture with the cathedral looming at the end of the crowded street.
ReplyDeleteI think you did very well with your pics, Jenny!
ReplyDeleteThe cathedral does look magnificent especially in the city surroundings.
ReplyDeleteIt is impressive.
ReplyDeleteThe orgigamis are completely wonderful. And you did a good job. Just glorious. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteOops. Sorry. You know which post I meant that for.
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