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Salisbury is an ancient cathedral city. Its
history goes back over a thousand years and its origins can
be traced thousands of years further back.
Its not surprising therefore that it has many points of
interest, especially historical interest, and is close to
many other historic sites. Salisbury Cathedral is undoubtedly
the thing that attracts the most tourists to the city.
People come from all over the world to see this masterpiece
of medieval gothic architecture for themselves, so much so
that it is unfortunately becoming more and more commercialised
and less a working place of worship.
These days it even has a "ticket booth" to collect
your voluntary donation on your way in. With the tallest spire
in England, reaching a height of 404 feet, the Cathedral
at Salisbury is amongst the most beautiful in the world. |
It is visible on every approach to the City, some of the best views
being from the hills to the east and south of the city. Building
commenced in 1220 and is almost entirely in the early English style
although the upper part of the tower and spire are of the later,
Decorated period. Salisbury is one of the few Cathedrals built in
the shape of a double cross with the arms of the transept branching
off on either side. The cloisters are larger and older than any
other of the English cathedrals.
Salisbury has many surviving buildings in the Tudor style, such
as the Pheasant pub. These date from late medieval times and contribute
much to the architectural atmosphere of the city.
In some places entire streets can be found
where the original building faces have been retained, despite
conversion from houses to shops. Inside such shops you normally
find that ceilings are low and the shop area cluttered since
many are listed buildings.
A listed building is one deemed to be of great historic
or architectural value and is protected by law from alterations
that might destroy its charm, interest or value. Hence these
cannot be radically altered to suit commerce.
Salisbury has been a favourite destination with visitors
for the past 800 years or more. With first class visitor attractions,
theatres, events, shopping, eating and drinking it’s
no wonder that last year Salisbury was voted, by Observer
readers, in the top ten of the best British tourist destinations!
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Salisbury Related
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