Llandaff Cathedral

The Majestas

The first thing most visitors notice is Jacob Epstein's Majestas, a 16-foot aluminium figure of Christ in Glory mounted on a concrete double arch in the middle of the nave. The arch, designed by architect George Pace as part of the cathedral's restoration after wartime bomb damage, also houses part of the organ. The nave was rehallowed in 1957.

Pre-Raphaelite treasures

Look for Rossetti's triptych, commissioned in 1855 and completed in 1864, now in the Illtyd Chapel beneath the Jasper Tower. There are five stained-glass windows by Morris and Company, an altar frontal designed by Philip Webb in the Lady Chapel, and creation panels designed by Burne-Jones in the Dyfrig Chapel.

Visiting

The cathedral is open daily and remains a working church with choral services on Sundays, including Choral Evensong, which is a fine way to hear the choir. Donations are encouraged, as the building costs over £3,000 a day to maintain. Tours and educational visits can be arranged. Afterwards, walk to Insole Court for coffee or along the River Taff towards Sophia Gardens. The streets around the cathedral close and Llandaff's village green make a pleasant short stroll before or after a visit.

Highlights

• Jacob Epstein's aluminium Majestas
• Rossetti triptych (1855–64)
• Morris and Company stained glass
• Choral Evensong on Sundays
• Around 1,500 years of worship on the site

Good to know

• The cathedral relies on donations; it costs over £3,000 a day to maintain.
• Guided tours and educational visits can be booked through the cathedral.
• It is a working church, so parts may be closed during services.

Frequently asked questions