#28 St Davids Cathedral - Pembrokeshire, West Wales

It was raining (surprise!) the day we visited St Davids Cathedral, and the photo at left captures the essence of that. St Davids is an important presence in Pembrokeshire, and the town grew up around the cathedral because of pilgrimages. So important a saint was David that Pope Calistus II in 1220 declared that two pilgrimages to St David equaled one to Rome in the Middle Ages. In my research of the life of St David, I learned that more is known about the lore than his actual life. He is the patron saint of Wales and the people are very proud of his legacy, embellished or not.  

Bishop Gower built the Bishops Palace and medieval bishops commanded their vast wealth from the comfort of it.

This view, from inside, only hints at the massiveness of the cathedral. I couldn't find the actual size, so I deduced that its importance is not measured in square feet. In 1995 Queen Elizabeth II conferred city status to St Davids, population less than 2,000 people. As for Pembrokeshire, St Davids "put it on the map." I think importance is not measured in numbers either.

Since the 6th century there has been a church on this site when St David established the first monastery here. One hopes that the noble purpose of the intricate craftsmanship was to inspire worship of the Lord Jesus Christ. From floor to ceiling to windows, this has been accomplished. As much as I stood in awe of what gifted men and women can do, I recognized the One who is honored above all. St David taught his followers to 'be joyful, to keep the faith, and to do the little things I do.'

We all agreed that the ceiling with its beautiful wooden beams and carvings were our favorite. Of the 3 hares, at least one appears to have no tail.  We found that amusing as well.

This painted ceiling is viewed from the mirror installed in the floor. This allowed us to study it without getting a crick in the neck!