If the Anglican Manchester cathedral could turn into a living being, it would have become the phoenix bird that burns and is reborn from the ashes. No, the temple has never become a prey of a fire, but throughout its centuries-old history, it has suffered from both ruthless natural disasters and the hands of man. Despite the disasters that befell the majestic structure, it has been given a new start time after time to finally become the residence for the Bishop of Manchester, a cathedral for locals, and one of the prominent landmarks for city guests.

The cathedral was built at the turn of the 15th-16th centuries in the Perpendicular Gothic, which abounds in rectangular line intersections and decorative panels with carved woodwork. At first glance, it may seem that the classic Victorian Gothic outplays such a simple design with an abundance of details. But, having visited the cathedral, you will understand that appearances can be deceiving: thanks to the architectural features of perpendicular lines, huge stained-glass windows are everywhere, flooding the entire space with soft and pleasant natural light. The only sad thing is that the original stained glass windows of the cathedral were destroyed during World War II.

To build the temple, they used two types of stone: brown sandstone was used for walls and limestone for the floor.

The cathedral’s interior is unusual because, against the background of medieval walls, columns, and decorative elements that have survived to this day, you can see modern additions, for example, furniture for parishioners. However, the church keeps many relics of the past. One of the columns has a stone with a portrait of an angel found in the masonry of the cathedral. It is over a thousand years old. Also, note the stone bas-reliefs with angels and a dozen or so artfully wood-carved angels playing music, soaring under the arches of the central nave.