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Vicars’ Close is claimed to be the oldest, complete medieval street in Europe. It was built in 1348 to house the Vicars Choral, who would sing at daily services at the adjacent Wells Cathedral. The centuries-old tradition continues today.
At one end of the cul-de-sac is the Close Chapel, and at the other, the Vicars’ Hall, which is joined to the Cathedral by the Chain Gate Bridge. Originally 42 houses were built. This was reduced to 27 after the Reformation when vicars were allowed to marry and accommodate their families. Among the alterations made during the 15th century, were rear extensions and the addition of the iconic chimneys.
Wells is the second smallest cathedral city in England (after the City of London) and was founded in 1205. It is located at the foot of the Mendip Hills in Somerset. It was named after the fact that there are three wells in the city closely associated with the cathedral.
