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Wells Cathedral, located in Somerset, is often described as the ‘most poetic’ of the English Cathedrals and was the first to be built in the Gothic style.

University of Exeter and Wells Cathedral celebrate new partnership

The University of Exeter has embarked on a new partnership with Wells Cathedral to uncover more about the stunning building known as the ‘most poetic’ of England’s Cathedrals.

Both organisations will cooperate on research, including using digital technology in conservation, analysis and interpretation of the Cathedral’s manuscripts, early printed books, archives and holdings.

Their existing working relationship has been formalised with a Memorandum of Understanding that will see the University and Cathedral forge a closer partnership through projects that are mutually beneficial to the University, Cathedral and heritage and education sectors.

As well as research there will also be opportunities for student work placements and volunteering.

Wells Cathedral, located in Somerset, is often described as the ‘most poetic’ of the English Cathedrals and was the first to be built in the Gothic style.

Its iconic West Front with 300 medieval carvings and the 14th-century scissor arches are among the highlights of its architecture.

Wells Cathedral is also home to a thriving spiritual, musical and historical community stretching back nearly 850 years.

The Cathedral has an international reputation for the quality of its music department and is the recipient of several tourism awards – recently achieving a Silver Eco Church Award.

Professor Neil Gow, Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Impact at the University of Exeter, said: “It is great to see that Wells Cathedral is embarking on a major project to open its ancient buildings more fully to the public and to enhance the visitor experience for diverse audiences.

“With the University of Exeter’s long-standing expertise in history and our recent ground-breaking development of digital applications for the cultural heritage sector, this promises to be a very productive and exciting partnership.”

The Very Reverend Dr John Davies, from Wells Cathedral said: “I am delighted that Wells Cathedral and The University of Exeter have formalised a working partnership through this Memorandum of Understanding.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to share knowledge and experience whilst creating opportunities for the respective communities we serve to grow. We hope that this partnership will provide great benefit for the South West.” 

To find out more about Wells Cathedral, see: https://www.wellscathedral.org.uk and for heritage news at the University of Exeter, see: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/heritage/

Date: 9 September 2021

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