St Edmundsbury Cathedral

Nave Ceiling

The Facts

In the 1860s it was decided to alter the low pitch, dark oak ceiling and the famous Victorian architect Sir George Gilbert Scott designed the current high-pitched version. He introduced angels on the ends of the hammerbeams.

The angels carry one of four symbols:

  • i)
    The crown and crossed arrows of St Edmund
  • ii)
    The scallop shell of St James
  • iii)
    A pilgrims’ walking staff and scrip (bag)
  • iv)
    The cross of St George, seen here in gold on a blue background.

Alterations had to be made to the West end to accommodate the new ceiling.

The painting of the ceiling was done in 1948.

Nave interior
Angel Ceiling Figurehead Close Up

The symbols of being held by the angels remind us of the link between the Cathedral, the Abbey and pilgrimage. View the pilgrimage tour of the Cathedral here;

You will find many angels in churches. They may be on the roof or in the stained glass windows, or on carvings. Angels are messengers and we are reminded of the angels who brought messages at the first Christmas.

Why not have a go at making a Christmas Angel?

Coming soon….

If you’d like a more in-depth tour, Cathedral Tours are available! Please speak to a welcomer to find out more details.