The South Transept

This is just the place to discover how Hereford Cathedral appeared when it was first built.

Building work was begun in about 1107, and the south transept was completed roughly 40 years later. The east wall has five rows of arches within it, some with blind arcading, some opened; the effect is almost primitive in its simplicity and yet it is one of the delights of the whole building.

The three largest arches have tapestries designed by John Piper set into them. They were woven in Namibia, which was the only place where large enough looms were available. However, their origin also serves to remind us of our close links with Christians in Africa, especially in the Church of Tanzania, with whom we have a twinning relationship.