Arundel Cathedral Carpet of Flowers 2017

This Wednesday and Thursday, 14 and 15 June, Arundel Cathedral celebrates the feast of Corpus Christi with its world-famous Carpet of Flowers. As well as floral displays, around different parts of the Cathedral, the highlight is the full length of the aisle decorated with flowers in a design unique to each year.

This year the theme of the carpet is the centenary of the death of the Cathedral’s founder; Henry, XV Duke of Norfolk (1847-1917). The designs on the carpet reflect his life and public ministry and so include symbols of his ducal authority (the Duke of Norfolk is the premier non-royal Duke in the country) and his role as Earl Marshal. Henry, although a quiet and unassuming man, used his talents and wealth for the benefit of others. As a devout Roman Catholic, he commissioned what is now Arundel Cathedral to celebrate his coming of age. Later to commemorate his marriage to Lady Flora Hastings he had St John’s Cathedral in Norwich built. Amongst other projects, to further the education of young people, he co-founded St Edmund’s College, Cambridge.

The Cathedral Dean, Canon Tim Madeley said: “It is a great privilege this year to celebrate the life of this extraordinary man who in all manner of ways has influenced the life of people in Sussex and beyond for many generations. Going around the displays gives the visitor ample opportunity to explore more deeply the life of Duke Henry and to admire to incredible skill of those who put together the floral creations.”

The flower festival and carpet are open to the public on Wednesday 9.30am – 8pm and on Thursday from 9.30am until 5.30pm when a special Mass will conclude the festivities. Entrance is free.

Read more about Arundel Cathedral here: www.arundelcathedral.org