St Mary's Church

St Mary’s Church in Shrewsbury is a magnificent testament to the architectural prowess and religious devotion that has spanned centuries. As the largest church in Shrewsbury, it stands proudly with its towering spire reaching towards the heavens, a beacon of history and faith in the heart of Shropshire.

The History of St Mary’s Church

St Mary’s Church has its roots as a collegiate church, believed to have been founded by King Edgar in the 10th century. This ancient establishment served as a Royal Peculiar, a church that answered directly to the monarch rather than a bishop. By the 13th century, it was thriving with a dean and nine canons. Excavations in the 19th century uncovered remnants of an earlier church, revealing a nave and apsidal chancel, hinting at its long-standing ecclesiastical presence.

The current structure began taking shape in the 12th century. Initially, it featured a nave without aisles and a cruciform east end. Over time, additions like the large west tower and transepts were made to accommodate altars for the canons. The church continued to evolve, with the addition of aisles, a raised chancel, and the Trinity Chapel in the 14th century. The 15th century saw the construction of a clerestory and the possible addition of the spire, which is noted for being one of the tallest in England.

Architectural Marvels

The exterior of St Mary’s Church is a splendid blend of Norman and Perpendicular styles. The four-stage west tower, with its Norman base and Perpendicular top, is a striking feature, crowned with a recessed octagonal spire adorned with lucarnes. The church's aisles and clerestory boast Perpendicular windows, while the south porch, built in Grinshill stone, is a two-storey marvel with a 12th-century lower level and a 14th-century upper level.

Inside, the nave arcades are celebrated as the finest architectural elements, featuring wide bays with semicircular arches. The oak ceiling of the nave is intricately carved with 15th-century depictions of birds, animals, and angels, offering a glimpse into the artistic craftsmanship of the era. The Trinity Chapel houses a triple sedilia, and the medieval high altar stone, unearthed in 1870, is preserved below the current altar.

Stained Glass and Monuments

St Mary’s Church is renowned for its extraordinary collection of stained glass, considered unparalleled in the country. The east window of the chancel, depicting the Jesse Tree, is a masterpiece dating back to between 1327 and 1353. This historic glass was originally part of the Franciscan church in Shrewsbury and was later moved to St Mary’s in 1792. Other notable glass pieces include scenes from the life of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux and windows from Cologne and Liège, showcasing a rich tapestry of European artistry.

The church also houses poignant monuments, such as the plaque commemorating Robert Cadman, a tightrope walker who met a tragic end in 1739. A recumbent effigy by Richard Westmacott of Col C. R. Cureton, who died in India in 1848, adds to the church's historical narrative. A memorial to the men of the 85th Regiment of Foot, who perished in the Afghan War of 1879–80, is another testament to the church’s role in preserving history.

The Bells and Organ

St Mary’s Church is home to a melodious ring of ten bells, eight of which were cast in 1775. These bells bear inscriptions wishing happiness and prosperity to the church and the nation. An old bell from Battlefield, cast by Abraham Rudhall, serves as a sanctus bell, adding to the church's rich auditory heritage.

The church’s musical legacy is further enriched by its four-manual organ, dating from 1912. This instrument is a culmination of a musical journey that began in 1729 with a three-manual organ by John Harris and John Byfield, later expanded in 1847 by Gray and Davison.

Preservation and Legacy

Declared redundant in 1987, St Mary’s Church is now under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust, ensuring its preservation for future generations. In 2015, it was designated as the Trust's first Conservation Church, highlighting its significance and the ongoing efforts to maintain its grandeur.

St Mary’s Church is more than just a building; it is a living chronicle of Shrewsbury’s history, a sanctuary of art and architecture, and a beacon of cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a curious traveler, a visit to St Mary’s promises a journey through time, echoing with stories of faith, artistry, and resilience.