Wells, Somerset

Wells is a historic cathedral city located in Somerset, England, nestled on the southern edge of the Mendip Hills. Renowned for its magnificent medieval cathedral, it is also recognized as one of England's smallest cities. The city's name derives from three holy wells dedicated to Saint Andrew, which are situated within the grounds of the Bishop's Palace and the cathedral.

History and Foundation

The area was settled by Romans and later became an important center under the Anglo-Saxons. King Ine of Wessex established a minster church here in 704 AD, marking an early significant religious foundation. Two centuries later, in 909, Wells became the seat of a newly formed bishopric. Following a period where the bishop's seat was moved to Bath, a significant dispute between the canons of Wells and the monks of Bath was resolved in 1245. The bishopric was then renamed the Diocese of Bath and Wells, with elections to be held by both religious houses. The construction of the current cathedral and the Bishop's Palace in the first half of the 13th century, under the direction of Bishop Reginald and later Bishop Jocelin, solidified Wells as the principal seat of the diocese.

Architectural Significance

Wells Cathedral is a prime example of Gothic architecture, with construction and significant additions occurring between the 13th and 15th centuries. The cathedral precinct, known as the Liberty of St Andrew, is a walled enclosure that includes the cathedral, the Bishop's Palace, the Vicar's Close, and clergy residences. Notable entrances to this precinct, built around 1450, include the Penniless Porch, the Bishop's Eye, and Brown's Gatehouse.

Historical Events and Economy

Wells experienced notable events during the English Civil War, where the cathedral was damaged by Parliamentarian troops. Later, during the Monmouth Rebellion in 1685, the cathedral again suffered damage. Historically, the city was a center for cloth making, and in the 16th and 17th centuries, it retained its importance as a market town, eventually hosting the largest cheese market in the west of England in the 19th century. Today, Wells is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical sites and proximity to other notable locations. Its unique historic architecture has also led to the city being frequently used as a filming location for films and television programs.

Governance and Status

Wells holds city status, a designation most recently confirmed by Queen Elizabeth II in 1974. The city is governed by Wells City Council. Historically, it was recognized as a free borough by a charter from King John in 1201. The city's administrative history involves several changes, including its incorporation as a municipal borough and its eventual transformation into a civil parish with city status.