The Te Deum Window
Te Deum is the large window at the end of the South Transept, behind Prior Castell’s Clock.
The ‘Te Deum’ is the name of a very early Christian hymn praising God, thought to have been written by St Ambrose, and can also refer to a short religious service of blessing or thanksgiving.
Interesting facts
It was made by the firm of stained glass makers Clayton & Bell at a cost £650 (which is about £42,000 today), and installed in 1869 in memory of Charles Thorp, Archdeacon of Durham and the first Warden of Durham University.
History
The design is based on an earlier window in the same place from the 1400s. That window was lost at the Reformation, but it is described in the ‘Rites of Durham’, a manuscript from the late 1500s telling how the cathedral looked and functioned when it was a monastery.
Things to look for
In the centre windows or ‘lights’ are scenes from the life of Jesus. On either side of these are figures of the Apostles and martyrs (people who have died because of their faith). The smaller lights above them include various angels, saints, symbols of Jesus Christ and, at the very top, the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove.
Follow the guided tour
You’re in: South Transept You’re at: The Te Deum Window Next stop: Millennium Window
- Turn around so you are facing away from the clock
- Walk past the Durham Light Infantry Chapel
- On your right is a wooden arch
- Walk under the arch and down the aisle
- Stop under the first big stained glass window you see on the right
- This is the Millennium Window