Set in the grounds of Harewood's vast estate, All Saints Church dates back in part to Norman times, was rebuilt in the 15th century and then altered in the 18th century. It is not now used for worship, but is cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust. Its graveyard is nicely overgrown with grasses and wildflowers, and holds some very old memorials.
The church's interior is chiefly renowned for its fine collection of alabaster tombs, dated between 1419 and 1510, depicting lords and ladies from the families who owned the Harewood and neighbouring Gawthorpe estates in the 15th and 16th centuries.
I think it's a beautiful space, at its best when the sunshine pours through its windows, casting patterns.
The figures above are, I believe, William Gascoigne and Margaret Percy, dated 1487.
The current owner of Harewood House is David Lascelles, the 8th Earl. His grandfather, the 6th earl, married Princess Mary, the Princess Royal, the only daughter of King George V and Queen Mary and an aunt of our present Queen Elizabeth II. There is a memorial plaque in the church and I believe there is a family vault.
Times were so different then. The rich were so rich. Even more than today.
ReplyDeleteWhat a nice little church...and I had to think twice about alabaster. So I looked it up! It does lend itself to carving. Then my mind took a side trip thinking of all the rich and important people (not always the same ones) who have died in, say, the last 100 years. I wondered where they are buried...there's only so much space in churches and cemeteries!
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful place. Very peaceful.
ReplyDelete