History
St. Michael’s church in Llanfihangel Crucorney was probably founded in the 12th or 13th century as the successor of the earlier chapel from Mount Skirrid. In the later period of the Middle Ages it was significantly expanded, but like many other Welsh churches it fell into decline after the Reformation and in the 19th century its nave was already in ruin. Unfortunately, instead of renovation, its walls have been largely dismantled and erected again. Together with them, the original oak roof truss was destroyed, which was replaced with a temporary roof. The current windows were introduced at the end of the 19th century.
Architecture
The medieval church consisted of a rectangular nave built of red, unworked sandstone. In the later period of the thirteenth or fourteenth century, a chancel and a still not high tower were added. It was raised to its present height in the 16th century, and then a porch was also added on the south side. The tower was topped with a battlement, and in the corners it was equipped with gargoyles with grotesque, twisted faces.
Current state
The walls of the tower, chancel and porch have survived to modern times. The nave was largely rebuilt, the current windows of which were introduced at the end of the 19th century. Some of the chancel window jambs were also replaced at that time, although the original ogival windows survived on the north and south sides.
bibliography:
Salter M., The old parish churches of Gwent, Glamorgan & Gower, Malvern 2002.
Website britishlistedbuildings.co.uk, Church of St Michael A Grade II Listed Building in Crucorney (Crucornau Fawr), Monmouthshire.
Website coflein.gov.uk, St Michael’s church, Llanfihangel Crucorney.