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Cathedral construction site JLP01_01_025_57
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Cathedral construction site JLP01_01_025_57
COVENTRY CATHEDRAL, PRIORY STREET, COVENTRY. A view of the construction site of Coventry Cathedral taken from the spire of the old Coventry Cathedral, looking down on the original graveyard and the remains of the Old Priory Row which traversed the site from east to west.
The photograph shows the construction of the new Coventry Cathedral, designed by Basil Spence in 1951 and constructed between the mid-1950s and 1962. It replaced the ruined Cathedral Church of St Michael which had been badly damaged by bombing in 1941. The caption below the photograph in the album reads "... In the centre of the middle ground can be seen the construction of the walls of the Fan Chamber, which is situated under the Chapel of Unity, and the concrete blinding which is under the floor of the passage leading into the Fan Chamber."
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 23904789
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1950s Building Site Cathedral Construction
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the monumental construction site of Coventry Cathedral in the 1950s. Taken from the vantage point of the old cathedral's spire, it offers a unique perspective on this historic transformation. The image reveals a bird's-eye view of the original graveyard and remnants of Old Priory Row, which once traversed the site. Designed by renowned architect Basil Spence in 1951, this new cathedral was a symbol of hope and resilience for post-war Coventry. It replaced the Cathedral Church of St Michael, which had been severely damaged during a devastating bombing raid in 1941. The photograph showcases various stages of construction taking place between the mid-1950s and 1962. In particular, attention is drawn to two significant elements: the walls being erected for the Fan Chamber situated beneath the Chapel of Unity, and concrete blinding underpinning the floor leading into this chamber. As we gaze upon this historical snapshot, we are reminded not only of human determination but also our ability to rebuild even amidst destruction. This image stands as a testament to Coventry's unwavering spirit and its commitment to creating something beautiful out of ruins. Captured by A© Historic England Archive, this print serves as an invaluable record documenting both architectural progress and Britain's post-war reconstruction efforts.
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