Our Big Adventure

YORK

York is a city of extraordinary culture and history. It’s spiders web of narrow cobbled streets enclosed by a circuit of 13th century Norman walls. And at its heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring Minster, one of the most beautiful gothic cathedrals in the world. Originally a Catholic Church, but since the break in 1534 initiated by Henry VIII, it has been a Church of England. It’s beautiful gothic stained glass windows, some dating back to 1260 and the largest of them as large as a tennis court depict biblical stories. Bombed during the 2nd world war and again devastated by fire in 1984, this church has been lovingly restored and still used daily for services. We happen to arrive at the same time as the 5th International Sword Spectacular was on, wow you are probably saying, wish I were there for that! Some 50 groups from across Europe, the USA and the UK are here to perform. The dancers link swords (blunt edged) and create complex figures, intricate stepping and entertaining athletic showmanship, all accompanied by a fiddle and a tin whistle. We had stopped in at the pub for a cider on our way back to our B & B and a few of the teams were there as well. Before long one team challenges another (to a dance off) and soon there were feet flying and swords flashing, all amongst a small and busy pub you have to remember. Only in England, you might say!

posted by Brian and Julie @ 6:55:00 PM