SDO14027 - Christchurch Priory, Dorset. Archaeological assessment of North Choir Aisle etc.

Collation and analysis of published and archive sources, together with detailed inspection of the external fabric of the Choir north wall, the North Choir Aisle and adjoining parts of the Lady Chapel and St Michael's Loft of Christchurch Priory, indicate that most of the architectural deail and c. 20% of the facework is of 19th century date, some of it replacing earlier 19th century repairs. Original details appear to survive on the elevations of the Lady Chapel/St Michael's Loft alone. The report concludes that, as such, these details have no archaeological potential and little historical significance. However significant details do exist, principally in the jointing detail of the facework, which replicates and articulates the devlopment of the building and its history of repair; and in the plaster infill of one of the lady Chapel windows, which is probably of 18th or even 17th century date and potentially encompassess the only surviving medieval window detailing in the church.