The cathedral you visit today dates back to 1079, originally Norman but changed extensively in the 13th century – the central tower was rebuilt in the 14th century.

Pride of place as far as treasures go is the Hereford Mappa Mundi, the largest existing medieval map of the world. It was created over 800 years ago and shows how the world was seen in the year 1300 when it is believed it was made. On a single sheet of calf skin measuring 1.59 x 1.34 metres (5’2” by 4’4”), it has Jerusalem at the centre and shows Europe, Asia and North Africa.

The Chained Library is a reminder of the times in the 17th century when books in university and cathedral libraries were locked up. Hereford Cathedral has preserved its chained library with around 1500 books dating from 800AD to the early 19th century and including medieval manuscripts. It’s still in use today.

Composer Sir Edward Elgar lived in Hereford for a while and wrote music here – see the statue of him with his bicycle looking up at the cathedral.

Practical Info

5 College Cloisters, Cathedral Close, Hereford HR1 2NG

Hereford Cathedral