St John the Baptist Cathedral

St John the Baptist Cathedral stands in Norwich, East Anglia, on Unthank Road. Built between 1882 and 1910 to designs by George Gilbert Scott, Jr., it began as a parish church. The 15th Duke of Norfolk funded its construction as thanks for his first marriage. In 1976 it became the cathedral for the Diocese of East Anglia. It is one of two cathedrals in Norwich, the other being the Anglican cathedral begun in 1096. The cathedral holds a place in Catholic history. In 2014 it hosted a Pontifical High Mass for the first time since 1558. The Duckett Library, opened in 2012, contains 3,000 religious publications. It is named after the rector from 1876 to 1910. The Narthex, opened in 2010, serves as the visitor centre with a shop, refectory and community garden. Inside, the cathedral’s south aisle leads to the Duckett Library. The Narthex includes an Education and Interpretation Gallery. A refectory opens onto an outdoor patio, and a licensed bar overlooks the community garden. The cathedral’s parish extends to Holy Apostles Church in West Earlham. Visitors find a quiet space for reflection and learning.