Norwich Cathedral: architecture in the bosses
The Dean & Chapter of Norwich Cathedral, Chapter Office, 65 The Close, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 4DH
Ever wondered what Solomon's temple looked like? Or the Tower of Babel? Or how tall were the gated walls of Bethlehem? The bosses show us images which were conjured up from the fertile imaginations of the skilled workmen who created these in the fifteenth century. You will see Pontius Pilate’s canopied bench; the low bench seats, set on both sides of the rectangular table used for the Last Supper; the storehouse where Joseph carefully guarded his sacks of grain.
Not all the boss pictures are benign – in one, a Benedictine monk strands at the west door of a church with transepts, a tower and a spire (sounds familiar? ) – but this monk is anxiously awaiting the arrival of St Denis, the decapitated saint carrying his own head!
The Cathedral bosses serve two purposes. They are, in fact, keystones designed to knit together the ribs of the stunning stone vaulting. But, rather than leave the keystones plain or ornament them with leaves, flowers or heraldic designs those in our city's cathedral vividly show us the exuberant creativity of the builders of these wonders and give insights into the mediaeval mind.
Timings & Tours
- Wednesday 17 September:
- Talk 1430 | Fully booked
Location & directions
The Dean & Chapter of Norwich Cathedral, Chapter Office, 65 The Close, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 4DH
- Directions:
- Meeting point and directions will be issued on booking
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- If you can no longer fulfil your booking, please cancel this by emailing [email protected] to provide others with the opportunity to attend.
- Booking contact name:
- The Forum
- Booking website:
- https://norfolkhods.ticketsolve.com/
- Booking opens:
- 27 Aug 2025 10:00 AM
- Booking closes:
- 16 Sep 2025 03:00 PM
Accessibility details
Disabled parking must be pre-booked by telephoning 01603 218300.
Additional information
- Max no of people per tour:
- 30
- Est. tour duration:
- 1 hour(s) 0 minute(s)
