tury, when some inches of the outer surface of the stone,
and with it much architectural detail, were removed. The result is the
flatness previously alluded to, and a general newness of appearance
pervades the structure. Seen, however, from a distance, where only the
finely-grouped and proportioned masses of masonry, towers, and turrets
stand against the sky, the result is magnificent, giving an impression
of grandeur and dignity unsurpassed by any other English cathedral.

[Illustration: The Nave, looking West.]

CHAPTER III

DESCRIPTION OF THE INTERIOR

If the exterior of Durham is in any way disappointing, the interior more
than compensates for its shortcomings. The general impression on
entering the church is one of simple dignity and solemnity. The great
massiveness of the structure and absence of elaborate ornament no doubt
contribute to this feeling. The pious builders of old have certainly
contrived to stamp on their work their own feeling of awe in the
presence of the All-Powerful and Eternal God. Whatever has been lost
through vandalism and the restorer, this remains unaltered. The general
design of the church, exclusive of detail, which, of course, changed and
developed with the progress of Gothic art, has undoubtedly been carried
out on the plan intended by Bishop Carileph, the only important
variation being the addition of the transept at the east end, known as
the Nine Altars Chapel. The original plan consists of a nave and aisles,
transepts with aisles on their eastern side, a choir also with aisles,
and the three apses of the east end, with a central tower over the
junction of transepts, nave, and choir, and towers flanking the west
end.

[Illustration: One Bay Of The Nave (Measured Drawing).]

Each bay of the #Nave# is divided into two sub-bays. The main bays
have massive piers with engaged shafts on the recessed faces. The bases
of these are cruciform in plan, though the arms of the cross are very
short. At the height of the springing of the arch the shafts are
surmounted by plain cushion capitals. The division into sub-bays is
effected by the introduction midway of a massive round column on a
square base. These columns are ornamented in various ways, by channels
cut on the face. Some take the form of a zig-zag, some a spiral, others
a spiral in two directions, forming a trellis-like pattern, and others
again are reeded vertically. Their capitals are octagonal cushions. The
arches of the