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Just to the north of the river in the medieval city centre, Hereford Cathedral forms the main point of architectural interest, an amalgamation of various styles from the 11th century to an extensive Victorian refit. Constructed in the 14th century, the sandstone tower is the dominant feature, and the north transept is a perfect exercise of 13th century Early English architecture.
In the 1980's the sandstone New Library was specially built next to the cathedral to house the Mappa Mundi. Dating from 1300 and measuring 158 x 133 cm and drawn on a single sheet of vellum (calf skin), this remarkable map provides an extraordinary insight into the medieval mind. The geographical material of the map is contained within a circle measuring 52" in diameter and reflects the thinking of the medieval church with Jerusalem at the centre of the world. It is indeed a map insofar as it suggests the general geography of the world, with Asia at the top and Europe and Africa below, to left and right respectively, but it also squeezes in history, mythology and theology. An outstanding treasure of the medieval world, it records how thirteenth-century scholars interpreted the world in spiritual as well as geographical terms. The map bears the name of its author 'Richard of Haldingham or Lafford' (Holdingham and Sleaford in Lincolnshire). Superimposed on to the continents are drawings of the history of humankind and the marvels of the natural world. These 500 or so drawings include of around 420 cities and towns, 15 Biblical events, 33 plants, animals, birds and strange creatures, 32 images of the peoples of the world and 8 pictures from classical mythology.
Facilities
Catering
- On-site light refreshments
Children
- Children welcome
Groups
- Facilities for educational visits
- Facilities for groups
- Guided tours for groups
Property Facilities
- Gift shop
Gradings
- 5 Food Standards Hygiene
