Leicester Cathedral is built on the ruins of Roman Ratae (Leicester). 1600 years ago, when Martin of Tours, the Cathedral's Patron Saint, died, Ratae was a thriving trading town on a major crossroads.
Christianity was a growing religion in Britain by that time and Martin of Tours was considered a devout, holy man, a convert Roman soldier, valiant against paganism, worker of miracles in life and after death, bishop of the church and acquaintance of Emperors.
Leicester Cathedral has a history as diverse as it is complicated. From Cuthwine, who was the first Anglo-Saxon Bishop of Leicester in 680 AD, to being invaded by the Danes in 870 AD, the Cathedral saw changes, passed hands and was even stripped bare during the Reformation of 1548. Yet, it survived, and today remains a building of such immense stature, not only for historical purposes, but for it's testament to Christianity and it's outstanding beauty. See Important Dates.
A Brief Tour
The Nave is the large central area of the Cathedral where people sit. 'Navis' meaning ship in Latin has gilded angels in the roof that bear the emblems of the Lord's suffering.
Recently installed, the glass emblem doors depict the parting of the Red Sea, the pillar of fire and cloud and the Exodus story of the flight of the Children of Israel from Egypt.
Many important people have visited the Cathedral, King Charles I worshipped there twice and in 1946, it was visited by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth.
The Chancel contains Canons' stalls for the Cathedral clergy to meet each day and pray. Other stalls are named after people, some local, who have contributed in some way to the Christian church. These include, 'St. Augustine, Simon de Montfort and Handel and Gabriel Newton.'
On the floor between the stalls is placed the Memorial Stone to King Richard III. After he was killed at the Battle of Bosworth field in 1485, his body was buried in the graveyard. Later, his body was exhumed and his skeleton thrown into the nearby river.
In the sanctuary is situated the 'Bishop's Throne,' on which is carved the image of St. Martin on horseback. Above the high altar, is a memorial to those who suffered in the First World War. Saints represented there are George (England), Joan of Arc (France), Michael (Belgium), and Martin (soldiers and Leicestershire).
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