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SHOBDON
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The large motte at Shobdon dates from the years following
the Norman conquest and the castle on top of it would have consisted of
a wooden tower or keep and an enclosed area called a bailey surrounded
by a large wooden stockade. This kind of structure is very common along
the English - Welsh border and would have provided a strong refuge against
maurauding Welsh raids.
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The first church at Shobdon was probably of about the
same age as the motte and The Arches are some surviving parts of it which
can be seen to the north of the present church. The stone carvings on
these are quite extraordinary, although heavily decayed, and are of the
so-called 'Herefordshire' school with references to Celtic, Norse and
pre-Norman carved crosses. For more info and pictures click HERE.
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The font in the current church is also of this period
and was rescued and restored after serving as a garden ornament for
many years. It features fine carvings of lions around its base. Apart
from the 13th century tower most of the present building dates from
1756 when it was rebuilt and paid for by the Bateman family - the local
rich guys. The striking white and light blue internal decoration is
very memorable and has been described as 'Strawberry Hill Gothic' in
style. There is a visitor centre opposite.
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