Ancient_and_modern_York_a_guide

MODERN YORK. 43
THE CATHEDRAL CHURCH OF ST. PETER,
CALLED
Porfe JWtnsttr.
Whereat he wondered much, and gan enquere,
What stately building durst so high extend
Her lofty towers unto the starry sphere 1
Edmund Spencer.
This majestic structure—justly regarded as one of the
finest Cathedrals of England, and perhaps, taking it as a
whole, one of the most beautiful specimens of Gothic
architecture in Europe—now claims our attention. It is
built in the form of a cross ; and is in length, from base
to base of buttresses, east and west, about 519 feet; from
base to base of the transepts, about 249 feet. The
internal length from base to base, or of clear way, is 483
feet ; and the internal length of the transept 222 feet 6
inches ; consequently, it is 19 feet longer than St. Paul's
Cathedral, London, and 30 feet longer than West
minster Abbey.
The Minsteb consists of a nave, with side aisles ;
choir, with ladye chapel and side aisles ; south transept
with side aisles ; and north transept with side aisles ;
lantern tower, two bell towers, a chapter-house, and
vestibule. To the church, on the south side, are attached
offices, used as a wills' office and an office for the custody
of the chapter-records. "The edifice," remarks Mr.
Browne,* " is placed nearly correct, according to the car-
* See " The History of the Edifice of the Metropolitical Church of St. Peter,
of York." By John Browne, artist ;—one of the most elaborate and beautiful
works ever dedicated to the illustration of the Minster,