In awe of England's medieval Anglican cathedrals
By Ray Moseley Chicago Tribune
December 23, 2007

England's medieval Anglican cathedrals — the soaring, awe-inspiring skyscrapers of their day — remain among the world's architectural treasures, their history entwined with that of saints and sinners, kings and queens, and ordinary folk.

There are more than 40 of them, and any listing of the most important is bound to be subjective. Thus, the seven cathedrals discussed in this article are simply my favorites.

These churches were built after the conquest of England in 1066 by William of Normandy (aka the Conqueror). Early cathedrals were in Norman style, another name for Romanesque; then came English Early Gothic, Decorated (classical Gothic) and Perpendicular (late Gothic). After renovations and additions, most cathedrals now represent a melange of styles. the rest Salisbury Cathedral photo