ABSTRACT
This Chapter describes two outstanding stone edifices: the Albert Memorial, a superb decorative building stone monument; and Durham Cathedral, a masterly stone built structure. The history of the Albert Memorial, as Queen Victoria’s memorial to her husband Prince Albert, is described, together with illustrations of the mechanical structure of the monument and the wide variety of British stones used both for the structure and the extensive decoration. The foundation and undercroft, steps, paved platforms, podium, pedestal and frieze, canopy and fleche are described. The concept of the ‘Albertopolis’ area in London is explained. The advantageous location of Durham Cathedral on an incised meander loop of the River Wear is explained, together with its 12th century construction and important architectural contributions. (The Cathedral is also noted for its internal incised pillars and the use of pointed Gothic stone arches supporting the stone roof.) A case study of the weathering of the Durham Cathedral sandstone is included, together with an explanation of the ‘Liesegang rings’ so prevalent in the sandstone. Copious, full-colour illustrations, an extensive background bibliography together with the information the book contains, will enhance the reader’s appreciation of the built environment whether in the countryside or in the city.
