May 30, 2013

more old things (Salisbury Part II)


This might not look like it, but it's a clock -- a bulky one, compared to my wristwatch, but the oldest functional one in the world.


The clock's thick cords span several floors to their bells above.  We were in the attic when it sounded the hour.  The cords shook and the whole space filled with vibrating sound.

Somewhat older is this tomb.  The inscription reads thus:

William Longespee:  Earl of Salisbury.  Illegitimate son of Henry II and half brother of King John.  He was present at the laying of the foundation stones of the Cathedral in 1220.  He died in 1226 and was the first person to be buried in the Cathedral.


We thought our tour guide was joking when he told us he wanted to show us the cathedral's bumping stone.  A disincentive for bad singers, I suppose?


As we were leaving the cathedral, some unseen person started playing the organ.  The big sound filled the big space well.  It was beautiful and I wished I could stay in the sanctuary and listen.




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