Bangor University Exhibition Celebrates 1500 Years of Bangor Cathedral
Bangor University is hosting a major exhibition curated by the Archives and Special Collections department to commemorate the 1500th anniversary of Bangor Cathedral. The exhibition, which opened on Tuesday 10 June, showcases rare manuscripts and archival treasures from both the University’s collection and the Cathedral Library.
The anniversary marks 1500 years since St. Deiniol founded his monastery in Bangor in 525 AD, giving the city its name. The exhibition, located at the Main Arts Building at Bangor University, will run until 19 December 2025 and is also available to view online.
Elen Wyn Simpson, Archives and Special Collections Manager at Bangor University, states, “This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore 1500 years of continuous religious and cultural heritage. The materials we’re displaying reveal the important role Bangor Cathedral has played in Welsh history and the broader story of Christianity in Britain.”
The exhibition features illuminated manuscripts, rare printed books, and archival documents that tell the story of this ancient Welsh ecclesiastical centre. The collection has been in the care of Bangor University for several decades and is a valuable resource for researchers and the wider community, available at no charge.
Bangor Cathedral has stood as a symbol of Deiniol’s vision for 1500 years. From its humble beginnings as a secluded monastery, it has witnessed centuries of Welsh history, surviving Viking raids, Norman conquest, and religious and political changes.
The anniversary programme includes several high-profile events throughout 2025, including a live broadcast of BBC Radio 4’s Sunday Worship, a new musical production by Choir of the World winners Côr Glanaethwy called Dinas Noddfa / City of Refuge, and the installation of a new icon of Saint Deiniol.
Reflecting on the anniversary, David Morris, Bishop of Bardsey and Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Bangor, says, “For fifteen centuries, Bangor Cathedral has been a beacon of faith and community in Wales. This exhibition captures the fascinating history of our cathedral and its vital role in Welsh spiritual life throughout the ages.”
Bishop David adds, “St Deiniol’s vision of creating a place of worship and learning continues to inspire us today. As we celebrate our 1500 year milestone, we continue to serve a growing worshipping community with daily services, outstanding choral music, and civic and national events. The Cathedral attracts thousands of visitors each year, and this exhibition will surely attract many more.”
The Bangor Cathedral 2025 Exhibition is part of the Archives and Special Collections’ commitment to making their resources accessible to all researchers and the wider community. It is currently on display at Council Chamber Corridor, Main Arts Building, Bangor University, and can also be viewed online at https://www.bangor.ac.uk/archives-and-special-collections/exhibitions.
In addition to the exhibition, the Cathedral’s anniversary celebrations include the launch of a new Welsh Church Music CD recorded by Saint Deiniol’s Cathedral Choir, and a brand new musical production by Choir of the World winners Côr Glanaethwy called Dinas Noddfa / City of Refuge. A new icon of Saint Deiniol will also be installed in the Cathedral.
Visitors to the exhibition can view a variety of items, including the earliest deed related to Bangor from 1306, Visitation Reports of the Dean and Chapter of Bangor Cathedral from the late 16th – early 17th century, and an inset map of Bangor from John Speed’s map of Caernarfonshire from 1610.
The Bangor Cathedral 2025 Exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the history of Bangor Cathedral and its significant role in Welsh culture and spirituality for the past 1500 years. Don’t miss your chance to view this remarkable collection of rare and precious items.
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