Castel Church

Guernsey, United Kingdom

Pagans, Pirates and Romans have all been linked with the site now occupied by Castel Church. Outside the main door can be seen the Neolithic Statue Menhir found under the floor of the church during the 19th century. At its foot lie the stone seats for the official of the medieval court of Fief St Michel. The church of ‘Our Lady of Deliverance’ to use its ancient title, was first mentioned in a papal document dated 1155. The earliest part of the church is the western half of the north aisle, dating from the last half of the 11th century or the first quarter of the 12th century.

Internally there are a number of interesting features: in the north chancel, 13th century frescos and a medieval stone credence, and an hagioscope piercing one of the tower pillars; in the south chancel, an ancient piscine, a blocked up priest’s door and a ‘hole in the wall’, thought to be the remains of a cupboard where the altar vessels were stored. Church Registers date from 1674.

Externally, growth of the building can be gauged by a number of blocked doorways and reconstructed windows. Alternatives to the church building have been accompanied by other variations which can be seen reflected in the list of Rectors. The list begins in 1262, and encompasses Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, Calvanist and Anglican clergy.

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Details

Founded: 1155
Category: Religious sites in United Kingdom

Rating

4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Steven Corley (2 years ago)
Wonderful old church, unfortunately I was at a funeral ?
Siegfried Moherndl (2 years ago)
Mums wreath there on grandpa's grave
trish s (2 years ago)
Beautiful building inside and out.
Chris (3 years ago)
Really lovely old church it looks very nice at night when it's all lit up I'll have to go and take some night time photos and add them to Google maps.
Jo Gib (5 years ago)
Beautiful stone 'Grandmere' statue menhir - stands outside the church, was found years ago buried under the church entrance steps - a foundation sacrifice perhaps...!? Church also has interesting wall paintings and a bell pit - very rare!
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