Little Gem
St Mary’s Church, Cardigan, may not be 'little', but it has gems within its walls, as Caroline Evans discovers
St Mary’s is a Grade II* listed medieval church dating from the 12th Century, at the centre of the Benedictine Priory, and has been a place of worship without interruption since that time. It was the site of a famous medieval pilgrimage to Our Lady of the Taper (also named Our Lady of the Burning Taper because the Child Jesus held a burning taper in His hand), a wall painting destroyed at the Reformation. It is also sited on the pilgrimage route to St Davids Cathedral.
It consists of a three-bayed chancel, five-bayed nave, south porch, three-storeyed west tower, two-bayed vestry (north of the chancel east bays) and transeptal organ chamber (north of the chancel west bay) all constructed of local slate rubble.
The present nave dates from the 14th century and parts of the church were rebuilt in the early 1700s, including the tower which had collapsed in 1705. The chancel is described as being of exceptional quality. The octagonal font bowl with quaterfoil mouldings is thought to be medieval in date.
Although this church is hardly “little”, recent events have enhanced a major feature which deserves a visit. The demolition of neighbouring buildings has allowed light to stream in through the magnificent east window. The five-light window by Horace Wilkinson, completed in 1924, incorporates fragments of 15th century glass set in the upper tracery lights showing Christ on the Cross flanked by Mary and John as well as Gerald of Wales and Archbishop Baldwin of Canterbury – read Martin Crampin on the subject.
Surrounding the building is a large churchyard with pleasant walks; dogs welcome but please bring poo bags.
The area is known for its outstanding natural beauty, there are many beaches and the Preseli Hills are within easy reach. St Mary’s is firmly embedded in its community and enjoys a rich musical tradition with choirs and concerts. Funds were raised in 2015 to purchase a fine Steinway piano that is available to pianists. Currently it’s the main venue for the annual Other Voices Festival. The Tower houses six bells that are rung by the fine team of ringers.
The church is open daily for visitors and has an active Facebook page. Contact Revd Wyn Maskell, 01239 920 705. St Mary’s Church, Cardigan, SA43 1LU