England is filled with history, and forming part of that is the enchanting and magnificent cathedrals scattered across the country. Each holds its own unique features and allure, but there’s one cathedral nestled in a UK city that truly stands out.
Known for its medieval architecture and rolling hills, Durham has been ranked as having Europe’s most captivating cathedral, according to a survey by Saga Holidays. The holiday searching website analysed Google reviews and Google search data to reveal the results, with Durham Cathedral scoring an impressive 95 out of 100.
The study found that the iconic landmark received 20 mentions of the word ‘beauty’ and had around 60,500 monthly searches. The city was up against cathedrals dotted throughout Europe, with Strasbourg Cathedral in France ranking second, scoring 94/100, and Salzburg Cathedral in Austria following behind with 90/100.
However, the results aren’t surprising as Durham Cathedral is notably part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside Durham Castle, and is said to be one of the best-preserved medieval urban ensembles in Europe. Its Norman architecture is one of the cathedral’s compelling attributes, having been mostly constructed between 1093 and 1133 in the Romanesque style.
Inside, the nave boasts enormous cylindrical pillars carved with geometric patterns and a stone rib-vaulted ceiling that’s as impressive as it sounds. The cathedral sits on a hilltop location high above the River Wear, creating a dramatic and castle-like appearance, fitting considering Durham Castle shares its nearby grounds.
Another notable feature of the city is its scenic riverside walk along the River Wear and its historic city centre, which is packed with independent shops. The city also welcomes its famed Umbrella Street at Prince Bishops Place, typically once a year, and its Christmas Festival, taking place from December 5 to 7 this year.
Visitors can also find the picturesque Botanic Garden and the National Trust Crook Hall Gardens in the England city. But when it comes to the cathedral, it’s famous in its own right, having played a part in major movies.
Various areas of its magnificent architecture were featured in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, as well as its sequel, The Chamber of Secrets. Its secluded walkways, known as The Cloister, were featured in the first movie, where Harry, Ron, and Hermione are seen walking between lessons.
Additionally, its Cloister Garth, the square grass in the middle of the Cloister, was the backdrop for Harry releasing his pet owl, Hedwig, for a fly around Hogwarts Castle in the first movie. It also became the setting for the famous scene where Ron’s ‘eat slugs’ spell backfired in The Chamber of Secrets.
The Chapter House in Durham Cathedral also appeared during the first two Harry Potter films as Professor Minerva McGonagall’s classroom. The renowned cathedral has also appeared in the Marvel movie, Avengers: Endgame, having used its Galilee Chapel and The Nave.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
