Since the foundation of its cathedral in 597, Canterbury has been the epicentre of Britain’s ecclesiastical history and an important locus for architectural and visual innovation. The majority of these 17 essays deal with aspects of the cathedral, among them the rebuilding by Archbishop Wulfred (805–32), the south oculus and the ‘Old Bakery’ chamber; but other topics include the monks’ library at Christ Church and the Great Gate of St Augustine’s Abbey.