Richard of Wych, the bishop of Chichester from 1245 to 1253, was canonised by Pope Urban in 1262 for his ‘holy works and miracles’ and the ceremony to move or ‘translate’ his body to the cathedral’s retroquire was attended by King Edward I and huge crowds.
Chichester Cathedral was preceded by the monastery of St Wilfrid at Selsey, which was founded in 681, but in 1075 construction began in Chichester after the Council of London ordered that cathedrals should be built in more populous areas.
The events are starting with the exhibition Religion, Rebellion and Reformation, which opens on February 14 and will feature nine objects from across East and West Sussex which will each represent a century of the cathedral’s history.
A new choral piece has been composed as part of the festivities which will include street parties and an immersive light show highlighting the West Sussex cathedral’s history.
Newly installed Dean of Chichester, The Very Reverend Dr Edward Dowler, said: “It is a privilege to join the cathedral at this exciting time as plans for the Chichester950 celebrations unfold.
