A walk through Chichester Cathedral

Exploring 950 years with the Dean of Chichester

As 2025 approaches, Chichester Cathedral prepares to celebrate a monumental milestone: the 950th anniversary since the decision was made to establish a Cathedral in the city.
Nestled in the heart of Chichester, a city rich in Roman roots and medieval charm, the Cathedral stands as a beacon of spiritual and cultural life in Sussex.

To mark this anniversary, the Cathedral will host a series of events under the banner Chichester950, drawing attention to its enduring legacy and the treasures within its walls.

At the heart of the celebration is the Very Reverend Dr Edward Dowler, newly installed as Dean of Chichester in September 2024. In this article, Edward takes us on a personal journey, in his own words, through his nine and a half favourite treasures of the Cathedral—revealing both his deep reverence for its history and his vision for its future.

1. The Chichester Reliefs (c. 12th century)

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Discovered in 1829, these remarkable stone panels depict the story of Lazarus, brought back to life by Christ in one of the New Testament’s most profound miracles. The reliefs vividly portray Lazarus’s journey from death to life, with expressions of astonishment and joy etched into the faces of the figures. This narrative of resurrection not only embodies the Christian promise of eternal life but also resonates with the enduring renewal of the Cathedral itself. Hidden for centuries, these works remain a profound testament to the timelessness of faith, even inspiring modern artists such as Henry Moore.

The Chichester Reliefs in the Cathedral: The Raising of Lazarus

2. Noli Me Tangere, Graham Sutherland (1961)

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Noli Me Tangere, Graham Sutherland (1961) in Baptistery in Chichester Cathedral

 

Noli Me Tangere, Graham Sutherland (1961) in Baptistery in Chichester CathedralThis vibrant painting in the Mary Magdalene Chapel captures the moment Mary recognises the risen Christ. The depiction of Mary reaching out to Christ but being told, “Do not hold on to me”, is deeply moving. Its location ensures visitors can encounter it from as far at the Baptistery as they start their journey exploring the Cathedral,

3. The Roman Mosaic (discovered 1966)

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Unearthed during excavation work in the Cathedral, this fragment of a Roman floor reminds us of Chichester’s origins as Noviomagus Reginorum. Its intricate patterns, thought to date back to the 3rd or 4th century, are a tangible link to the Cathedral’s site as a crossroads of ancient and sacred history. This small but mighty artefact show us how the Cathedral is both rooted in the past and a beacon for the present.

The Roman Mosaic, Chichester Cathedral

4. The Mosaic of Saint Dominic (c. 21st century)

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St Dominic mosaic, Chichester Cathedral

Crafted by James Blackstone and Martin Earle of the Chichester Workshop for Liturgical Art, this modern icon invites viewers into a deeply spiritual encounter. The image of Saint Dominic, with his penetrating gaze, seems almost alive. Its careful positioning encourages the act of lighting a candle and pausing in prayer. This mosaic bridges the past and present, showing that sacred artistry is as vital today as it was in centuries past.

5. The Chagall Window (1978)

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Designed by Marc Chagall and inspired by Psalm 150, this vibrant stained-glass window celebrates the universal language of music as a form of worship. Its vibrant blues, reds, and yellows shimmer with life, depicting musicians praising God. For me, this window holds a special poignancy in the wake of the pandemic’s silencing of choirs. Now, as we work to launch a Choral Endowment for Music, the window is a hopeful reminder of renewal and the enduring power of music.

Marc Chagall window, Chichester Cathedral

6. The Cathedral Quire (14th century)

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The Cathedral Quire, Chichester Cathedral

The Quire is the Cathedral’s spiritual and musical heart, where the timeless tradition of Choral Evensong flourishes. Sitting in the Dean’s stall, I feel a profound sense of responsibility to serve this community and all who enter. The Quire’s intricately carved woodwork and vaulted ceilings create a space that invites peace and reflection. Attending Evensong here is a truly moving experience, a gift offered freely to all.

7. The Arundel Tomb (14th century)

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Immortalised in Philip Larkin’s poem, the Arundel Tomb is a poignant emblem of enduring love and the passage of time. Its touching portrayal of a husband and wife holding hands speaks to the universal human desire for connection. As someone who studied Larkin’s work extensively, I’ve long been fascinated by this tomb. Now, tasked with its care, I’m deeply humbled by its ability to inspire reflection on love’s timeless nature.

Arundel Tomb, Chichester Cathedral

8. The Lady Chapel (restored 2009)

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A space of tranquillity and beauty, the Lady Chapel contrasts the Cathedral’s stone architecture with a vibrant display of colour. Its painted ceiling and intricate stained glass contrast against the Cathedral’s aged stone walls. The chapel is a reminder of the Cathedral’s evolving story, having previous uses includes a Chapel to the Theological College, a family mausoleum to the Duke of Richmond and the Cathedral Library.

Lady Chapel, Chichester Cathedral

 

9. The Shrine of Saint Richard (13th century)

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The Shrine of St Richard, Chichester Cathedral

The resting place of Saint Richard of Chichester is a focal point for pilgrimage and prayer. Saint Richard’s Prayer, which I first learned as a child, continues to guide my faith: “May we know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly.” This Shrine is not a historical artefact but a living symbol of the Cathedral’s sacred heritage, drawing pilgrims and visitors from across the world.

9.5 The Capstone

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Capstones from the original spire, Chichester Cathedral

When the cathedral spire came crashing down in 1861, the capstone (allegedly) landed directly at the main entrance to the cathedral, our West Doors. On 2nd March, the builder explained: “as it descended the mass subsided into the centre of the church, and the top of the spire falling at last to the southwest, threw its capstone against the abutment of one of the flying buttresses”. Split directly in two, the capstone sits unassumingly in our north-east aisle (hence why it is only 0.5 on my list). The famed Victorian architect, George Gilbert-Scott, planned the re-building of the spire, with funding from eminent people of the time, including Queen Victoria, Prince Albert.

As Chichester Cathedral celebrates its 950th anniversary, explore these treasures for yourself. Each reflects not only the Cathedral’s rich history but also its role as a living place of worship and community. Whether you come to pray, reflect, or simply marvel, this year promises to be one of discovery.