Churches of Bristol

Bristol’s importance in mediaeval England was demonstrated when it became the first borough in England outside London to be given county status in 1373. It has been one of the largest settlements in the kingdom since this time and the wealth brought through its port and industries spurred the building of numerous churches that has continued through the centuries. Bristol has long been known as the city of churches and Churches of Bristol looks at the city’s churches from early examples to recent years, telling fascinating story of how they were built along with some of the colourful history of the city, for both are intertwined. The churches include those still standing in the original part of the city and the more modern examples built in the suburbs for Bristol's growing population. Not least are Bristol’s two cathedrals: the Anglican cathedral which evolved from an Augustinian Abbey and a Roman Catholic cathedral built in 1973. Some of the churches stand on sites where Celts, Saxons and Normans once worshipped, another is situated where five Marian Martyrs were burned at the stake. Also included are redundant churches that have been put to secular use, among which are the ruins of three destroyed in the Second World War. No book on Bristol churches would be complete without an account of St. Mary Redcliff - reputedly Queen Elizabeth 1 called it the ‘Fairest, goodliest and most famous parish church in the land’. This fascinating picture of an important part of the history of Bristol over the centuries will be of interest to all those who live in or are visiting this city.