The Berkswell Church late Norman crypt which dates back to c1150 and is composed of two chambers both of which are rib vaulted. The unique octagonal western crypt contains a Caen stone font given to the church by the Reverend Thomas Cattell who was the Rector from 1791 until 1826. The eastern rectangular crypt contains traces of a medieval wall decoration above the altar. The low stone seating around the walls was once used by the elderly and infirm. The crypt, which can be accessed via a pew in the North aisle.
St John the Baptist, Berkswell, is a Norman parish church containing one of the finest crypts in the country. The church is a Grade 1 Listed Building and is featured in England’s Thousand Best Churches by Simon Jenkins. Construction of the present church began in the 12th century (cll50) when two crypts, the chancel, nave, and a short North aisle were built. During the 14th century two archways leading to a South aisle were added and in the 15th century the North aisle was lengthened. There has been little structural change since the 18th century. The date of construction of the Tower is unknown but it is believed to have been in existence by 1600. The half-timbered two-storey South porch was added c. 1500. There is an external stairway leading to the upper chamber used at various times as a priest’s room, a village school, a parish council house and today it serves as the vestry. At one time wedding ceremonies were conducted in church porches. The 12th century oak door containing handmade nails is still in use. The late Norman crypt dates back to c1150 and is composed of two chambers both of which are rib vaulted. The unique octagonal western crypt contains a Caen stone font given to the church by the Reverend Thomas Cattell who was the Rector from 1791 until 1826. The eastern rectangular crypt contains traces of a medieval wall decoration above the altar. The low stone seating around the walls was once used by the elderly and infirm. The crypt, which can be accessed via a pew in the North aisle, is used today as a chapel, a baptistery and occasionally an art gallery.
Size: 5472px × 3648px
Location: Church Lane, Berkswell, Coventry, CV7 7BJ, England, UK
Photo credit: © David Warren / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: baptistery, berkswell, church, crypt, crypts, norman, underground, unusual, village, warwickshire
