Old Sarum Cathedral

• • Summary: Old Sarum Cathedral**

Old Sarum Cathedral, located in what is now Wiltshire, England, was a Norman cathedral that stood from its consecration in 1092 by St. Osmund until its relocation in the early 13th century. The decision to move the cathedral was made in 1189 by Bishop Herbert Poore due to its exposed and inconvenient location with limited water access.

The original cathedral, constructed starting in 1075, featured Norman architecture, including a quire, chapter house, and a shrine dedicated to St. Osmund. Its stones were reused to build the new Salisbury Cathedral, completed by 1258 in an Early English style. The last bishop at Old Sarum was Richard Poore, who moved the seat to his estate in Merryfield.

The ruins of Old Sarum Cathedral, along with surrounding fortifications, are designated Grade I listed structures since 1972. Excavation efforts by the Society of Antiquaries from 1909-1915 uncovered artifacts now housed at Salisbury Museum. This site remains a significant historical and architectural landmark.