York Minster
by MJ Braithwaite
York's imposing Cathedral of St. Peter is one of the largest churches in Europe.
The first, wooden church was built in the 7th century for the baptism of Edwin, King of Northumbria, and was dedicated to St. Peter. This was replaced by a stone church; its school, under the 8th century scholar Alcuin, was renowned throughout Christendom. This was destroyed in the great fire of 1069 which reduced much of York to ashes.
The present building is the fifth Christian church to stand on this site. Begun in 1222, by Archbishop Walter de Grey, the Minster was reconsecrated in 1472, having taken 250 years to complete.
Showing the two towers of the West Front, flying St. George's flag, and one of York's charming horse drawn carriages on Duncombe Place, the original picture was painted in acrylic, on canvas in 1997. Look for Lucy, M.J. Braithwaite's black cat trademark. 
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