St. Peter and St. Paul Church, Northleitch

'Tis but a small town, yet the church is so large. Northleitch with a population of just over 20,000 has pretty special church. It has been called by some the "Cathedral of the Cotswolds" (to be sure, several of the churches here seem to have also acquired this moniker). There are many special things to see here.

Even before entering the church, we see some amazing gravestones in the churchyard. Large ones such as the one below are shaped and sized to remind one of a bale of wool, the economic foundation of the Cotswolds from Roman times until at least the 18th century. Even in its weathered state, one can see many visages that one would not associate with wool (eg. the skull near the ground).

Other gravestones are more conventional but nevertheless ornately carved.

Arriving at the entrance of the church we see the first indication of the treasures that lie inside.

One of the first items encountered is the font dating from the 14th century. A mirror is placed on the floor so that the carvings underneath the bowl can more easily be seen.

Not satisfied with a mere reflection, I swatted to the floor show you the angels as they should be properly seen. I work hard for y'all!