Our Lady of Walsingham

Our Lady of Walsingham is a title given to Mary, the mother of Jesus, venerated by Catholics and high-church Anglicans.

History

• According to tradition, the title is linked to a Marian vision experienced in 1061 by Lady Richeldis de Faverches, an Anglo-Saxon noblewoman and widow, in the village of Walsingham, Norfolk, England.
• In this vision vouchsafed to Lady Richeldis, the Blessed Virgin Mary showed her the Holy House in Nazareth and commissioned her to construct a counterpart in Walsingham, dedicated to the sacred mystery of the Annunciation.

The reputed appearance of the Virgin Mary to Lady Richeldis is one of the earliest recorded Marian visions in England and was central to the establishment of Walsingham as a pilgrimage site.

• The shrine became a major pilgrimage site during the medieval period, attracting worshippers from across England and Europe.
• After Lady Richeldis' death, her son, Geoffrey de Faverches, inherited the estate and entrusted the care of the Holy House to his chaplain, Edwy.

During the Middle Ages, Walsingham grew into one of England's most significant pilgrimage destinations, attracting royalty and commoners alike.

Architecture

• The current church building is believed to have been constructed around 1053.
• The architectural style is Romanesque, with elements of Gothic Revival added later.
• The church's design reflects its history as a major pilgrimage site, with features such as the Slipper Chapel, which was purchased by Charlotte Boyd in 1895 and restored for Catholic devotion.

The church is located at Occupation Road 71, Corby, Northamptonshire, England.

Visiting Information

• The church is open to visitors during regular hours.
• However, please note that the opening hours may be subject to change.
• Visitors are welcome to attend Mass and other services, but it is recommended to contact the church in advance to confirm the schedule.

The church has wheelchair accessibility and is suitable for visitors with disabilities.

Organ and Bells

• The church features a pipe organ, which was installed in 2010.
• The bells of the church are reportedly four in number, although their exact specifications are not available.

Heritage Status

Our Lady of Walsingham is listed as a Grade I building by Historic England, recognizing its historical significance as a major pilgrimage site and its architectural importance.

Notable Artworks or Relics

• The venerated image of Our Lady of Walsingham is believed to have been blessed by Pope Leo XIII in 1897.
• The image is now housed in the Basilica of Our Lady of Walsingham, which incorporates the Slipper Chapel.