St Mary's Guildhall in Lincoln is a hidden gem nestled in the historic heart of the city. This remarkable building, with its rich tapestry of history and striking architecture, offers a glimpse into a bygone era. It stands proudly on Lincoln High Street, a testament to the city's medieval past and its enduring legacy.
St Mary's Guildhall is believed to have been constructed as a royal palace for King Henry II, completed by 1157. Although the evidence of its royal ownership before 1228 is not entirely conclusive, its grandeur and scale suggest a residence of significant importance. In 1251, the building was sold to the guild of St Mary of Lincoln by Henry III’s butler, Michael de la Burne. The guild held onto the property until 1547, after which it became the possession of the Lincoln City Council.
Throughout the centuries, the Guildhall has been leased to various tenants, including the Lincoln Christ's Hospital School in the early 17th century. By the 19th century, it had transitioned through different uses, from a malting facility to a builder’s yard. Finally, in 1938, the City Council purchased the Guildhall, and after a period of restoration, it now serves as the offices of the Lincoln Civic Trust and a church hall.
The architecture of St Mary's Guildhall is a captivating blend of medieval and Romanesque styles. Its exterior faces Lincoln High Street, featuring a facade of five bays with shallow buttresses and intricate Romanesque decoration. The moulded carriageway arch, adorned with floral and dogtooth ornamentation, invites visitors to step back in time and imagine the bustling activity that once surrounded this grand entrance.
Inside, the Guildhall boasts a first-floor great hall with arcaded decoration, measuring an impressive 20 meters by 6.5 meters. This hall, one of the largest surviving from the 12th century, underscores the building's historical significance and its role as a center of power and influence during its heyday.
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The Guildhall's origins as a potential royal palace add an air of mystery and intrigue. Historical records suggest that King Henry II may have used the building for a crown-wearing ceremony in 1157, further cementing its status as a site of royal importance. The architectural details, such as stone fragments with acanthus scrolls and volutes, align with the period of Henry II's reign, supporting the theory of its regal beginnings.
David Stocker, a noted historian, has argued that the Guildhall's scale and design make it a likely candidate for Henry II's palace in Lincoln. Its impressive great hall and Romanesque features set it apart from other contemporary buildings in the city, such as the Norman House and Jew's House.
Visitors to St Mary's Guildhall are treated to more than just an architectural marvel; they embark on a journey through time. The building's walls echo the stories of its varied past, from royal residence to guild headquarters, school, and finally, a civic trust office. Each chapter in its history adds depth and character to this already fascinating site.
The Guildhall's connection to the Roman road known as Fosse Way, discovered during excavations in the 1980s, further enriches its historical narrative. Evidence of Roman and Saxon structures beneath the building hints at the layers of history that lie beneath its foundations, inviting visitors to ponder the lives of those who walked these streets centuries ago.
Today, St Mary's Guildhall stands as a testament to Lincoln's rich history and architectural heritage. Its preservation and restoration have ensured that future generations can appreciate its beauty and significance. The Guildhall's role as the offices of the Lincoln Civic Trust and a church hall keeps it at the heart of the community, a living monument to the city's past.
As you explore this remarkable building, take a moment to imagine the bustling activity of medieval Lincoln, the echoes of royal ceremonies, and the vibrant life of a bygone era. St Mary's Guildhall is not just a building; it's a portal to the past, a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered by those who step through its historic doors.
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