Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral is the mother church of the worldwide Anglican Communion and one of the oldest Christian structures in England — a site of worship since 597 AD when Augustine was sent by Pope Gregory to convert the English. The current building, largely 12th-14th century, is a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture, and the history contained within its walls — from Thomas Becket's murder in 1170 to the Reformation — is extraordinary. The spot where Becket was murdered (marked by a simple altar and a modern sculpture called 'Martyrdom') is one of the most powerful places in any English cathedral. The Trinity Chapel, which housed Becket's golden shrine until Henry VIII destroyed it, still bears the wear marks in the stone floor from centuries of pilgrims' knees. The medieval stained glass, much of it original, is some of the finest in Europe. The cathedral precinct — with its cloisters, chapter house, and grounds — is peaceful and atmospheric. Evensong is free and beautiful. Canterbury itself is a walkable, historically rich city — the medieval streets, the River Stour, and the Marlowe Theatre are all worth exploring. Chaucer's pilgrims headed here for good reason; the journey is still worth making.