We spent a great deal of time in Canterbury Cathedral - it was such an overwhelming experience to be in that place filled with history. I loved walking the stair cases, worn down with hundreds of years of pilgrims' feet. I loved the stained glass windows and the stories behind them. I loved going deeper into the Cathedral and sensing the change in atmosphere due to lighting, decoration and use of the spaces. It was such a privilege to be part of a service here, to pray in the space that so many others have prayed, begged and bargained with God.
After our visit to the Cathedral, we wandered around the town of Canterbury and found our way to the West Gate circa 1380, from which pilgrims would enter the city of Canterbury. West Gate
A brief stop at St Thomas' Hospital for pilgrims - the word hospital is meant in its true sense of hospitality, being a place of rest for pilgrims on their journey.
Next we had a wonderful time at the Canterbury Tales! We had read the stories to the boys (the children's versions) prior to leaving on our trip. Here the stories were told as we travelled through rooms set up like scenes from the Tales or like stops along a pilgrim's journey. I absolutely loved watching they boys faces light up as they cried, "I know this!" or " This is the one about ..." Such saucy little tales that the finer points fly over their heads.
Next we headed to the Roman Museum. This small little museum was packed with artefacts and a good mix of exhibits for adults and children alike. I was particularly taken by the fact that regardless how big geographically the Empire was, the cultural things - mosaics, coins, clothes, pots, and town layout - were the same as we had seen in Heirapolis, Turkey.
We finished our day at the St Augustine's Abbey, the bones of what is left. We took an audio tour around the site and listened to stories of the Abbey in its full working days through to its destruction by Henry VIII, and its final reclamation/restoration from ruin. Benedict enjoyed dressing as a Benedictine Monk for the duration of our time at the Abbey!
