What is it about?
The interior of the hall itself remains much as it when it was built in the late eleventh century, but the chapel has been covered in over the centuries with bigger and 'better' buildings, and is even partly buried by the landscaping of the north slope of the castle. The curiously-marked golden sandstone used for the pillars was no doubt specially chosen to impress. Eight of its carved capitals on the two arcades survive; two are decayed.
Featured Image
Why is it important?
The scheme discussed in the article is an early one for England, probably being designed by William of St Carilef, who was chosen to be bishop of Durham by William the Conqueror in 1080. Despite the naive simplicity of the actual 'art', the design is learned and contains basic teaching. The interpretations offered enables us to imagine the chapel in use by the bishop and his household.
Perspectives
The bishop is an interesting character himself - quick, active and efficient, a Norman who got things done. His chapel may have been intended as a sample of what his intended cathedral would offer.
Mrs Rita Wood
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: The Norman Chapel in Durham Castle, Northern History, March 2010, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1179/174587010x12597746068426.
You can read the full text:
Contributors
The following have contributed to this page
