Shaping Early Medieval Faith: The Hereford Gospels

Discover the inner life of the oldest manuscript at Hereford Cathedral, the Hereford Gospels.

Made circa 800AD, the Hereford Gospels symbolise the continuity of the community at Hereford Cathedral. Shaping Early Medieval Faith explores how the Gospels were created and used through the centuries. It shares the results of new scientific imaging which has revealed secrets hidden within the manuscript’s pages.

Alongside the Gospels themselves are some of the oldest texts in the chained library, chosen to show what early medieval Christians might have been listening to or reading.

Shaping Early Medieval Faith: The Hereford Gospels will be on display in the Mappa Mundi and Chained Library from Monday 30 March until Saturday 12 September between 10am and 5pm, Monday – Saturday. Admission charges apply. 

You can purchase your ticket to visit the museum up to 4 weeks in advance by clicking below. Tickets will still be available to purchase from the entry desk on the day. When you purchase your ticket, you're welcome to enter at any time during opening hours on the same day. There’s no need to book a specific time slot. 

Each of the Hereford Gospel’s three decorated pages, at the openings of Matthew, Mark and John, will be on display at different dates:

Matthew: 30 March-23 May

Mark: 25 May-17 July

John: 20 July-12 September

A digital display in the exhibition allows you to see each of them no matter when you visit.

Please note that the exhibition will open at the slightly later time of 11am on Monday 30 March

This exhibition was made possible with Art Fund support and the loans are supported by the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund. With thanks to Pembroke College Cambridge and Herefordshire Museums & Galleries for their support.