Undisturbed Relics of St. Wite (St. Candida): It is one of only two churches in England (the other being Westminster Abbey) that still contains the undisturbed relics of the saint to whom it is dedicated, St. Wite (also known by her Latin name, St. Candida). This has created an unbroken line of pilgrimage to her shrine for over 1,000 years.
"Cathedral of the Vale": It is known locally as "The Cathedral of the Vale" due to its historical significance and prominence in the Marshwood Vale.
* Ancient Pilgrimage Site: The church has been a significant pilgrimage site for over a millennium, with pilgrims historically drawn by the reputation of St. Wite and the belief in the healing powers of her shrine. The shrine has three holes in its base where the sick could place body parts or offerings in hopes of miraculous healing.
* Survival of the Reformation: Remarkably, the shrine and its relics survived the English Reformation, during which many such sacred sites were destroyed.

Mike The Mooching Minister.

July 11, 2025

* Historical Significance: A church was first founded on the site in the 9th century by Alfred the Great. The current building incorporates various architectural styles, including Norman, Early English, and Perpendicular, reflecting centuries of reconstruction and expansion.
* Connection to Sir George Somers: The grave of Sir George Somers, who founded the colony of Bermuda and whose adventures are said to have inspired Shakespeare's "The Tempest," is located under the vestry.
* Dorset County Symbol: St. Wite is the patron saint of Dorset, and her cross was adopted as the new county symbol in a public vote in 2008.
The church continues to be an active Church of England parish church and is lovingly cared for by a local group, the Friends of St Candida.

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Elevation 90 m

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Location: Whitchurch Canonicorum, West Dorset, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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