| Penniless Porch | |
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| Penniless Porch.jpg | |
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Location within Somerset
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| General information | |
| Location | Wells, Somerset |
| Coordinates | |
| Construction started | c1450 |
The Penniless Porch in Wells, Somerset, England is an entrance gateway into a walled precinct, the Liberty of St Andrew, which encloses the twelfth century Cathedral, the Bishop's Palace, Vicar's Close and the residences of the clergy who serve the cathedral.
The Penniless Porch was built around 1450, by Bishop Thomas Beckington (also spelt Beckyngton) and bears his rebus or badge on the cathedral side.[1] It forms one of a pair with The Bishop's Eye which formed the gateway into the Bishop's palace from the market place.
It was named for the beggars who plied their trade there.[1]
It is a three storey building of Doulting ashlar stone, with lead roof and has been designated as a Grade I listed building.[2]