JohnLord
St Elvan
St Elvan Aberdare is a church of contrasts with white washed walls in the nave, beautifully painted floral ceilings in Arts & Crafts style fill the side chapels and 16 stained glass windows.
Aberdare, Glamorgan
Aberdare St Elvan
Saturdays from 10am to 2pm May to September.
CF44 7LA
Once visitors step inside St Elvan there is always an exclamation of surprise as they take in the impressive height and breadth. The church truly earns its nickname of the 'Cathedral of the Valleys.'
Situated in the centre of the town of Aberdare it's 180ft spire can be seen for miles around. St Elvan's interior white washed walls are the backdrop for sixteen impressive stained glass windows, the largest of which tells the story of St Elvan and hints at Aberdare's monastic past and the pilgrim trail to Penrys.
Hidden away in the Lady chapel is the lancet window that commemorates the church's founder. It depicts St Stephen the Martyr who was stoned to death, an ironic reminder of a challenging man who was as outspoken and contentious as he was benevolent. His contribution to the famous 'Blue Books' is still spoken of today.
The design of the Lady Chapel reflects the ideals of the Arts & Crafts movement and High Anglican worship. The walls and furniture overflow with symbols of lilies and foliage on blue green painted backgrounds. Completing the extravagance of decoration is a brightly coloured 'Crucifixion' window given by railway workers.
Many of the stories of St Elvan church intertwine with the iron and coal masters who together with Lord Merthyr developed Aberdare valley's mineral resources, parklands and churches. His family is included on eight of the windows. St Elvan has many fine examples of woodcarving. The finest is situated on the north wall of St Michael chapel.
This War Memorial, design by FC Eden, is adorned with five statues and lists the names and regiments of 222 men of the Parish who fought in the First World War. Research into the fate of the soldiers is left in the chapel for visitors.
Captivating architecture
Enchanting atmosphere
Famous connections
Magnificent memorials
National heritage here
Social heritage stories
Spectacular stained glass
Accessible toilets in church
Bus stop within 100m
Car park at church
Level access to the main areas
Ramp or level access available on request
Train station within 250m
Walkers & cyclists welcome
The Unity Project Community Garden is open on Thursdays from 12noon to 4pm behind the church, volunteers welcome.
Church in Wales
How we have helped this church
Repair Grant, £40,000, 2017
Our Repair Grants funded urgent repair work to help keep churches open.
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