Chichester, St Olave's Saxon Church

St Olave's Church, Chichester

The Saxon church of St Olave is probably the oldest building in Chichester still in use. The church was begun in the middle of the 11th century, possibly around 1050, which makes it older than Chichester Cathedral, and it was enlarged in the 13th century when the current chancel was built.

Stonework from the 11th century can still be seen in the chancel and nave, but the west frontage that faces onto busy North Street dates from the 13th and 14th centuries, though with 19th-century rebuilding.

There are 14th-century lancet windows in the chancel and the east window is from the same period. The remainder of the fabric dates to a restoration of around 1855. Look for an ornate 14th-century aumbry in the nave and a piscina of the same date in the south wall. Some of the interior memorials were brought here from St Martin's Church.

One theory suggests that the church was established by Earl Godwin, father of King Harold, the last Saxon king of England. Another theory has it that the church was founded by a Scandinavian merchant named Ketel Esterman, who owned property nearby.

The west frontage

History

St Olave had the smallest parish in Chichester, with only 200 parishioners. Like other parishes within the city walls, St Olave's was a 'peculiar'; that is, it was not under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop of Canterbury, but under the direct control of the Dean and Chapter of Chichester Cathedral.

St Olave

The church is dedicated to St Olave, the patron saint of Norway. Olave, or Olaf, reigned as King Olaf Haraldson of Norway. He died in 1030 and was canonised by Pope Alexander III in 1164. According to one ancient poem, Olave raised London in 1014 in an effort to depose Cnut and put Aethelred the Unready back on the throne.

During this attack, London Bridge was burned down, leading some historians to suggest that it was this raid that led to the popular nursery rhyme entitled, 'London Bridge is Falling Down'.

Carved head, west doorway

St Olav Christian Bookshop

St Olave's has been home to a Christian book shop since 1955, but it is still a consecrated Anglican church. In order to remain a church, at least one service has to be held here each year. That service takes place on 29 July, St Olave's feast day.

The book store is owned by the St Olav Trust (note the difference in spelling). The Trust is maintained by representatives from local churches, including Chichester Cathedral, several local Anglican congregations, the Catholic Church, Independent Free churches, and the Baptist Church.

Medieval carved head

Visiting

The church/bookshop is open during normal business hours, but of course you can view the west facade at any time. The church is an east stroll from the market cross and the cathedral.