Remembering 1323: Rebuilding St Albans’ Nave

In the early evening of 10 October 1323, part of the nave of St Albans Abbey collapsed. The contemporary account describes a gradual process; first one pier on the south side failed, followed an hour or so later by a second pier. Deprived of support at more than one point, the upper wall then fell outwards, flattening the north walk of the cloister, while the middle trusses of the nave roof plummeted, smashing the shrine of Saint Amphibalus. This talk examines the response to this disaster, and the decision that was taken to repair no more than was necessary, leaving St Albans with one of the most varied naves in European medieval architecture.

When | Wednesday 14 June 2023, 7.30-c.9pm

Where | St Albans Cathedral

Cost | £10 (£6 students)

Speaker | John McNeil, FAC, St Albans Cathedral  

Please note this event is in-person only and will not be recorded.

How to Book You can book online here using the button below, or by calling the Learning Administrator on 01727 890212 between 9.30am and 3.30pm Monday to Friday. Tickets will be on sale until 12noon on the day of the event. Please ensure that you provide a current email address when you book.  Clergy and Readers in St Albans Diocese have complimentary access to our Adult Learning courses, talks, study days, and reading groups. For clergy/Reader bookings, please email [email protected] with your name and role and we will confirm your place. Please note that this event is not being recorded.