Stories of Ely Cathedral - Prior Crauden's Chapel

Marvel at the chapel listed as a small pilgrim place, one of seven in the East of England; if it is famous for anything it maybe for the architecture, the floor tiles or possibly the murals.

Nikolaus Pevsner, the noted architectural historian, refers to it as a gem of the decorated style. With its nodding ogees, the architecture, circa 1322, is very much something of its age.

The floor tiles are a style of mosaic known as opus sectile and says Pevsner, is “One of the most important tile mosaic pavements of England,” and this is not withstanding the wear and tear that centuries of neglect have occasioned.

For the main mural it may be necessary to stand with a squint in one eye and the other one closed before some of the detail emerges into view. It certainly has faded over the many centuries since the work was carried out circa 1330. One noted historian wrote in 1924 “This painting was of great interest and should be carefully studied before it completely disappears”. Time is fast running out to enjoy this gem!

Dates & Times: Saturday 3 May, 12.30pm.

Please meet at the South Door, 10 minutes prior to the tour start time.

Additional Information: Please note that this tour is largely external, with some stepped access. We recommend sensible shoes and please dress for the weather.