Now, this lovely cathedral was built between 1841 and 1844, costing a whopping £15,000 (which is equivalent to £1,600,000 in today's money, can you believe it?). The architect of this beauty was Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin, who also designed the interior of The Houses of Parliament. Talk about impressive credentials!
The cathedral was built in the Early English Plain Gothic style, but let me tell you, the Blessed Sacrament Chapel inside is opulently decorated. Pugin loved his decorations, but sadly, most of them were destroyed during the upheaval of the Second Vatican Council. However, you can still see some fragments of his work in the Blessed Sacrament chapel, which are the highlight of the interior.
Now, not only is this cathedral historically significant, but it also houses the tomb of Venerable Mary Potter, the founder of the Little Company of Mary. Quite an esteemed resting place, wouldn't you say?
By the way, did you know that the cathedral is embarking on a project to restore some of the original planned designs by A.W.N Pugin? They're even going to uncover the whitewash that covers the original decoration of the Lady Chapel. It's going to be a sight to behold!
Alrighty, time to move on to our next stop! We'll be heading to the Old Market Square. Remember to keep your eyes peeled for any pigeons trying to steal your snacks! Let's go, my friend!
