Font (A) In Baptism here at the font new members are welcomed into the Christian church. Water is used to show that a fresh start has been made, sharing in the life of Jesus Christ. Nave Architecture (B) The rounded Norman arches and pillars, built of recycled Roman brick, were originally on both sides of the nave. They were extended westwards by Abbot John de Cella in the Early English style, but the south side pillars collapsed during a storm in 1323 and were replaced by more elaborate columns in the Decorated style. Wall Paintings (C) Most paintings date from the thirteenth century. The west facing pillars - each of which would have formed a backdrop to an altar - show the death of Jesus on the cross and scenes involving Mary his mother. The south facing paintings depict saints and were de-faced at the Reformation. Nave Altar (D) At this table Christians break bread and pour wine as Jesus did at his last meal with his followers. This is to share in the new life of Jesus through his death and resurrection. The Spanish crystal cross behind the altar reminds us of that new life. Cathedra (E) This church has been a cathedral since 1877 and this cathedra (Latin for seat) is the official place for the Bishop of St. Albans.

Quire (F)

The cathedral community worships here daily just as the monks of the Abbey prayed here for nearly 500 years from 1077.

Chapel of the Persecuted (G)

Here we remember people today who are oppressed and martyred, often - like Alban - because of their faith.

Exhibition Area (H)

Here are displays, changed at intervals, on the history of the cathedral, and a replica of the 14th century Wallingford clock.

Abbots' Tomb (I)

In 1978 the remains of eleven Norman abbots and four monks were reburied here during the building of the Chapter House.

Wallingford Screen (J)

The statues are Victorian replacements of the originals destroyed at the Reformation. You can see Alban and Amphibalus on the bottom row either side of the altar.

Ramryge Chapel (K)

This chantry chapel, in the Perpendicular style with its exquisite fan vaulted ceiling, was built in 1522 soon after the death of Abbot Thornas Ramryge.

Prayer Chapel (L)

The whole cathedral is for prayer; this chantry chapel is especially set aside for quiet prayer even when other parts of the building are busy.

Shrine of St Alban (M)

People have been coming here for over 1700 years to honour Alban. This chapel is today a most holy place of pilgrimage, as it has been for so long. When the monastery was dissolved the pedestal you see was destroyed and has now been reconstructed.

Watching Chamber (N)

From here, monks and townsmen kept guard over the Shrine and the gifts left by pilgrims. The frieze of solid oak shows scenes of 15th century life and the martyrdom of St Alban.

Lady Chapel (O)

This fourteenth century extension to the church is dedicated to Mary the mother of Jesus. Despite its original use it served as a school for over 300 years and was restored for worship just over a century ago.

Shrine of St Amphibalus (Q)

Amphibalus, the priest in the Alban story, was honoured, like Alban, with a shrine. Only about half of it was recovered after its destruction at the Reformation.

FOR VISITORS

Information Desk (W)

Chaplain is available for consultation throughout the summer and at other times.

Guides lead free tours of the cathedral every day from the west end (A) where times are published. They are often available at other times to answer questions.

Refectory Restaurant (X) serves tea, coffee, lunch, home -baked cakes & refreshments etc.

Gift Shop (Y) offers a wide variety of gifts, souvenirs, glass, tapes, CDs etc.

Bookstall (U) specialises in guidebooks, postcards, calendars & religious books.

Toilets (Z) are available in the Chapter House.

Disabled Visitors are welcome. Wheelchair access (V) is at the Slype door. Most parts of the building are accessible via ramps. A Touch and Hearing centre is available for the visually impaired (S). 'T'- loop system is installed. A toilet for disabled visitors is in the south presbytery aisle (T).

Back to Top