During the medieval period the Cotswold area underwent a startling
transition from small scale agriculture to large scale wool production. This
shift, most noticeable by the 15th century, enabled wool merchants to realize
tremendous profits with the aid of the “Golden Fleece” produced by
Cotswold sheep.
The “gold” in this case refers not to the colour of the fleece
itself but the tremendous economic value it possessed. The prosperous wool
merchants put back some of the money they earned into their local communities,
often by building manors for themselves, but just as frequently by endowing
their parish churches.
The “wool churches” of the Cotswolds are among the most elaborate
and architecturally attractive in the entire country due to the largesse of
successful wool merchants. Many of these magnificent buildings are like
mini-cathedrals, complete with fanciful carvings, elaborate ornamentation and
funereal monuments inside the church. Taken as a whole, the parish churches of
the Cotswold area constitute a superb collection of architecturally important
historic buildings. And to those who enjoy medieval architecture, the Cotswold
churches offer an unparalleled experience.
It is perhaps dangerous to single out just a few Cotswold wool churches for
special mention, as so many deserve a leisurely visit, but mention should be
made of a few personal favourites. The church of St. Peter and St. Paul at
Northleach is one of the finest wool churches in England, with the lavishly
carved south porch worthy of special note.
As with most wool churches the magnificence of Northleach can be traced to
the endowments of a few wealthy patrons. In this case the donors were Thomas
Fortey (d. 1447 ) and his son John (d. 1458). With its decorated parapets and
soaring pinnacles Northleach is reminiscent of a fairy tale castle as much as a
parish church.
Another personal favourite would have to be St. Peter at Winchcombe. Not as
fanciful or striking as Northleach, Winchcombe is of slightly later date and
has suffered at the hands of Victorian restorers. Yet despite this, the church
has a peculiar charm, due in part to the survival of a profusion of gargoyles
populating the parapets. These gargoyles, both in human and animal form,
provide a wonderfully whimsical touch amid the architectural beauty wrought by
generations of craftsmen.
I would also be remiss if I didn't mention St. Mary's at Fairford.
The first glimpse of the church rising above low pasture land to the west is
likely to make unsuspecting visitors stop in their tracks and stare (as I did).
The ornamentation of the tower is reminiscent of lace, so extravagant is the
stonework.
The magnificence of the carving may seem out of place in this quiet market
town, but it gives a fascinating glimpse at what life must have been like when
the “Golden Fleece” brought prosperity to this region. Fairford is
unique in that it possesses the most complete set of pre-Reformation stained
glass in the country. As a final, whimsical, touch, look for the carven effigy
of a pet cat just outside the main entry.
For more on the Cotswold region and its magnificent wool churches visit:
http://www.the-cotswolds.org/top/english/intro.html
Source: Britainexpress.com
