Southwark Cathedral, London

High Altar Screen – Southwark cathedral, 1520 AD


 The Great Screen


This magnificent screen was erected by Bishop Fox of Winchester in 1520. Although the general appearance of the screen, with three broad rich bands of carvings and statuary, is that of the original, most of the detail is from later periods.


Whether all the original statues were ever installed is uncertain, as the screen was completed within a decade of the Reformation when such statues were forbidden. The small carvings of the Lamb of God and the pelican (a badge of Bishop Fox) immediately above the rows of angels are probably original, as are some of the bases of the niches. The small carvings in the corners of the two doorways, showing hunting scenes, may also be original. source

 Model of the church and old Westminster Palace

The Humble Monument portrays Alderman Richard Humble and his two wives.

 the high alter and the great screen

walking toward the retro-choir

 
 the far back is called the retro-choir

The Retro-choir, built from 1215-1260 and is the oldest complete part of  Southwark Cathedral.

The Retro-choir is thought by many to be the loveliest part of the Cathedral, with superb spatial qualities. The design is 13th century Early English

 view from the retro-choir down the south choir

the floor of the Retro-choir.

 The Lady Chapel

south aisle nearing south west entrance

late afternoon sunbeams

exterior view

 outside Southwark Cathedral

archaeological chamber
 Roman Road 1st century AD

Near the entrance to the cafe and shop is part of the archaeological excavations left open for public display. Excavations around Southwark Cathedral in 1999 revealed part of a Roman road, foundations of the original Norman Priory wall, a 13th century medieval stone coffin and part of a late 17th century ‘Delft’ pottery kiln made of brick, one of the few surviving arched kilns found in Europe. source

Finally, after walking more than seven miles this day, we relaxed and ate dinner in a pub near our hotel.