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Malmesbury BB95_10457
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Malmesbury BB95_10457
MARKET SQUARE, Malmesbury, Wiltshire. A rooftop view looking over Market Square, showing the market cross (c.1500) and the abbey ruins. The abbey was the setting for mans first flight attempt in the form of a monk named Elmer who threw himself from the abbey tower and subsequently broke both his legs in c. 1000. Photographed in 1864 by W Hanks
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 627976
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph, taken in 1864 by W. Hanks, captures a breathtaking view of Malmesbury's Market Square as it once looked in Victorian times. The image showcases the historical charm of this quintessential English town, with its well-preserved market cross and the ruins of the Malmesbury Abbey in the background. The market cross, a striking medieval structure, stands proudly in the center of the square, its intricate carvings and ornate details a testament to the craftsmanship of the past. The abbey ruins, a short distance away, add an air of mystique and intrigue to the scene. The abbey, founded in the 7th century, holds a rich and storied history. It was here that the monk Elmer, in a daring and ill-fated attempt, is believed to have made the first recorded flight attempt in human history. According to legend, Elmer, inspired by the stories of angels in flight, threw himself from the abbey tower in the year 1000, only to land awkwardly and break both his legs. The photograph, taken over a century later, offers a glimpse into the past, transporting us back to a time when the abbey was a thriving center of religious and intellectual life. The image serves as a reminder of the enduring allure of history and the importance of preserving our heritage for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
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