Coventry Cathedral

WilmaK, I am not religious and therefore do not contribute to Church Funds- so am happy to contribute to repairs and maintenance of magnificient buildings I love to visit (and yes, Durham is a favourite, and so is Peterborough- as I am a real admirer of Norman architecture). Southwell is wonderful too- small but perfectly formed.

I'm afraid that experience shows that when donations are asked for, people tend to put in a few pence or a £ at most - and it just won't cover the massive expense.

Week before last in Southern Tuscany, just below Montalcino (of Brunello wine fame) - we came upon a wonderful pure Romanesque large Church- in amazing countryside. We were admiring all the Normal carvings when we heard the chanting and quietly went in. The Brothers sung Gregorian chants for about 30 mins, then quietly filed out with their cape hoods on to go back to their lodgings next door. VERY moving.

San Antimo is the place, make sure you visit if ever in Tuscany.

I am happy to pay an entrance fee if that is required, but like wilma I have to wonder where all the CofE's money goes. My BF is heavily involved with her local church and when she told me of the eye watering amount of money they had to send to the diocese every month my mouth dropped open. I don't know how they manage it.

I love Coventry Cathedral. Very interesting read is Phoenix at Coventry by the architect, Basil Spence. The only thing is, that if you wanted to pray in peace and quiet it's not so good.