About the cathedral and the city
Salisbury Cathedral is one of Britain’s finest medieval cathedrals, both a living church and internationally renowned heritage attraction. It is also home to one of only four surviving original Magna Carta (AD1215). which is on permanent display to visitors in the Chapter House.
The cathedral offers a warm welcome to the 250,000 pilgrims and tourists who visit each year to marvel at the peace and beauty of the 750 year old building. They admire Britain’s tallest spire that soars to 404 feet, cloisters larger than any other in England, plus the world’s oldest working mechanical clock.
Built in just 38 years between 1220 and 1258, it is a masterpiece of Early English Gothic design, and in 2020 celebrated the 800th anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone. Situated in the beautiful and peaceful Close, it was built to inspire and reflect God’s glory, and whilst it is a place of quiet prayer and reflection, it is as a centre bringing together hundreds of people in our great Christian services that it comes alive to the sound of the choir and the congregation raising their voices.
In January 2021 the cathedral opened its doors as a venue for a COVID-19 vaccination site. Scores came along to have their jabs, often to the sound of organ music. The Very Revd Nicholas Papadopulos, Dean of Salisbury said: “We are proud to be playing a part in the life-saving vaccination campaign and look forward to seeing the NHS team, volunteers, and even more of our neighbours in their Cathedral. Here they will receive a warm welcome, discover a beautiful place, and leave with fresh hope – and with our prayers.”
