This church is Norman in origin. England’s manorial villages, mostly under ecclesiastical ownership, became more strongly established in Norman times. New churches were built, signifying this new-found prominence.
The Norman nave and chancel still form the core of the building. At the north and south doors, original arches with zigzag carving date from about 1150.
Original Norman arch at south door
Photograph by Ivor Coleman
Possible layout of the Norman Church
Illustration by Michael Collins
The Catholic Church was the most powerful institution in Medieval life, led by the Pope in Rome through his Cardinals across Europe. People’s thoughts and deeds were deeply affected by church teaching.
Peter Rusciniol of Drochoneford was a member of this ecclesiastical hierarchy. In a Papal Register of 1231, his is the first reference to a rector at Droxford’s church.
Pope Boniface VIII (1294 - 1303) and his cardinals
© British Library Board Add. 23923 f. 2 CAS-1056324-D4J3
The authority of the church in Medieval times was reflected in the rapid expansion of this building. By the 14th century, north and south aisles and chapels had been added, establishing the layout of today. John de Drokenesford, this church’s most illustrious clergyman, consecrated the Lady Chapel in 1316.
The extended church of the 14th century
Illustration by Michael Collins
People left their unique imprint on this building in various Medieval markings and graffiti still visible today.
Names etched in a wall corner to the left of Lady Chapel arch
Photograph: Hampshire Medieval Graffiti Project
Mass dial in the porch
Photograph: Hampshire Medieval Graffiti Project
Stone mason’s hexfoil mark on the corner of a pillar to the right rear of the nave
Photograph: Hampshire Medieval Graffiti Project
Written by Ivor Coleman, Designed by David Goodman
