ST. THOMAS A BECKET RUINS
In the ancient hilltop weaving village of Heptonstall, overlooking Hebden Bridge, stand two churches, both in the same churchyard, one in ruins and the other one still very much in use.
The chapel was erected between 1256 and 1260 and was dedicated to Thomas a Becket who was murdered in 1170, became a saint in 1173, and was a popular symbol of resistance to state authority. It had a chancel, a south nave, which is still standing, and a tower. Much re-furbishment occurred in the 14th and 15th centuries and eventually there were two naves, two aisles and two chantry chapels as well as a tower. It would have been a built quite low, so as to avoid the worst elements that the Pennine weather can produce.
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The chapel was erected between 1256 and 1260 and was dedicated to Thomas a Becket who was murdered in 1170, became a saint in 1173, and was a popular symbol of resistance to state authority. It had a chancel, a south nave, which is still standing, and a tower. Much re-furbishment occurred in the 14th and 15th centuries and eventually there were two naves, two aisles and two chantry chapels as well as a tower. It would have been a built quite low, so as to avoid the worst elements that the Pennine weather can produce.
Copyright - The Digital Image ©
Two Churches
Ruins
Ruins 2
Ruins 4