Saint John Church, Cardiff

Saint John the Baptist Church, located in the heart of Cardiff, is a Grade I listed medieval gem that stands as a significant historical and architectural landmark next to Cardiff Castle. This parish church, originally constructed in 1180 as a chapel of ease for Saint Mary’s Church, reflects its rich history in every aspect, from its construction materials to its architectural embellishments.

The church’s structure is predominantly built from blue Lias, a Jurassic stone rich in fossilized shells, originally sourced from Aberthaw, with details in freestone from Dundry. Over the centuries, it has seen multiple phases of construction and restoration. The most notable feature of the church is its magnificent west tower, which rises over 40 meters. Clad in grey limestone ashlar with buff-colored Dundry stone detailing, the tower is praised as a "magnificent marker" by John Newman in his Glamorgan volume of the Pevsner Buildings of Wales series.

The church underwent a major transformation in the late 15th century, rebuilding after Owain Glyndŵr's 1404 rebellion. By 1490, it featured a perpendicular tower and ten bells, topped with openwork battlements typical of West Country churches. Following the 1607 Bristol Channel flood, which destroyed Saint Mary's, Saint John’s became the primary parish church until the 1843 construction of the Church of Saint Mary and Saint Stephen by the 2nd Marquess of Bute.

The church also boasts richly detailed stained glass windows, some dating back to 1855, with others crafted by Morris & Company in 1869, featuring designs by William Morris. These artistic additions complement the architectural splendor of the church, enhancing its historical and cultural narrative.

Today, Saint John the Baptist Church not only serves as a place of worship but also as a priory church for the Order of Saint John in Wales, continuing to be a focal point in Cardiff's cityscape, admired for its historical depth and architectural beauty.