Chichester Market Cross

It will come as no surprise that it was raining in Chichester this morning.

Chichester is laid out in cruciform shape with this cross at the intersection of North, South, East and West streets. The octagonal Market Cross was built around 1500 and given to the city by Bishop Story as a place where people might shelter while selling their wares. The market soon outgrew the location and it has become an easy meeting spot. The wee guy with the bowed head sitting inside was in exactly the same position when I passed on my way home over an hour later.

Behind is St Richards Cathedral where the most spectacular of all festival of flowers is held every two years. The theme this year is 'Every Book Tells a Story'. 7, 8, 9th June. The Cathedral is also known for its returning pair of peregrine falcons. This is the twelfth year the pair have nested here, raising 38 chicks. This year they have 4, all feeding well. Expected to fledge towards the end of June. The public can see the birds via webcam online or from the gardens of the Cloisters Tea Room [also worth a visit:)] .